Hello! I am Karen Gross and I’m an attorney and entrepreneur with a passion for fostering a more just and compassionate society. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin (Hook ‘em!) and my law degree from the University of Houston Law Center. Professionally, I see myself as a practitioner, a storyteller, a facilitator, an advocate, an experience designer, and an educator.

Early in my career I served as policy director for an Austin City Councilmember where I discovered a love for stakeholder processes. Working in local politics helped instill a faith in government and a belief in the ability to solve problems when inclusivity and psychological safety is prioritized. After law school I served as director of the Austin Anti-Defamation League where I oversaw the programmatic growth of the office. My proudest accomplishment was facilitating the launch of the Austin Hate Crimes Taskforce. This was a true community-wide endeavor that brought together civil rights organizations working alongside law enforcement and city officials.

I have experience as a criminal defense attorney and I help people with a criminal history petition for a pardon or clemency. This work reinforces my belief in the power of storytelling as a tool to build connection and overcome stereotypes and bias.

I founded Citizen Discourse -a training company creating learning experiences designed to foster community, culture, and emotional intelligence- out of a deep concern for the state of our polarized society. I have witnessed how this work changes hearts and minds, and believe it can also change systems. I love bringing people together over a delicious meal and good conversation. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with you.