From Chicago, Kristen obtained a B.A. in Medieval Studies from the University of Oregon (Hons), an M.P.A from Southern Illinois University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She now serves as the Director of STEAM and Innovation for the Boy Scouts of America in Chicago. Kristen has a nonverbal learning disability (NVLD), and as a result, serves as an ambassador for the NVLD Project. Interestingly, she also interned at Burning Man during her undergrad years.