Dr. Carla Knorowski is a nationally recognized civic leader, writer, and philanthropist who has spent her career building bridges between people, institutions, and ideas. As a Founding Board Member of the Dehkhoda Educational Foundation, she brings deep expertise in cultural diplomacy, education, and nonprofit leadership to support the Foundation’s mission of peace, progress, and prosperity.
With a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Dr. Knorowski has held leadership roles across a variety of esteemed institutions. She served as Chief Executive Officer of The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Foundation, where she significantly advanced public engagement with Lincoln’s legacy and was instrumental in securing vital funding for the preservation of historical artifacts and educational programming. Her leadership extended globally as she forged partnerships with cultural and governmental institutions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
An ardent champion of arts, culture, and education, Dr. Knorowski has also served in senior roles at institutions such as the University of Illinois System and the Chicago Humanities Festival. She is a published author and speaker whose work emphasizes the importance of history, civic literacy, and cross-cultural understanding in shaping a more compassionate and informed society.
Dr. Knorowski’s deep respect for the legacy of Ali Akbar Dehkhoda — as a writer, reformer, and advocate of secular education — resonates strongly with her lifelong commitment to intellectual freedom and public service. Her contributions as a board member help amplify the Foundation’s global vision and promote enduring values through education and cultural dialogue.
