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Who we are

Community Design Partners

About us

Student-Powered Improvement was developed by Community Design Partners as part of our work to center students, families, and communities. We strive to create spaces where all people can experience joy, connection, and purpose. Each word in our name was intentionally chosen to embody our journey and values:

Community

We believe that the answers to complex problems are rooted in community.

Design

We use mindsets and tools from human-centered continuous improvement to interrupt and redesign systems.

Partners

We see each other and those we work with as partners to learn and grow with.

Our work

The Community Design Partners team specializes in improving systems, engaging communities, and strengthening teams to create equitable and lasting change. Our work includes an array of services for organizations, schools, and districts across the country.

Improve systems

We teach, coach, and support human-centered continuous improvement mindsets and methods so that organizations can tackle complex problems.

Engage community

We transform how organizations engage youth, families, and community to understand problems and design stronger solutions together.

Strengthen teams

We help teams grow, navigate change, and reach their goals.

Our team

Meet the Community Design Partners (CDP) team! Kari Nelsestuen, Julie Smith, and Daniel Ramirez bring their unique strengths to center students, families, and communities to create meaningful, just, and joyful environments. Kari, a creative leader and skilled facilitator, thrives on “light bulb moments” when teams uncover root causes of problems and co-create solutions. Julie, a seasoned facilitator with a knack for humor and mindfulness helps teams build strong relationships and drive towards justice. Daniel, a big-picture thinker, loves adventure and brings thoughtfulness, consensus-building, and a passion for equity to every project. Along with partners in the field, the CDP team strives to foster learning, growth, healing, and the creation of better environments for all.

 

Image of Kari, Daniel, and Julie - the three members of community design partners.

Connect with us!

We’d love to connect. Contact us with questions or for support on your student-powered improvement journey.