Karlee Popken

Vice President

SMI VP and government relations expert with deep knowledge of appropriations policy from her service on Capitol Hill

Insights

A Guide to CPF for Universities and Nonprofits
Karlee Popken; Sept. 16, 2026

Profile

Karlee Popken, Vice President, is a seasoned legislative and public policy professional with expertise in appropriations, small business issues, housing and community development, social welfare, tax and finance, and trade and economic policy.

Prior to joining SMI, Karlee served as a Legislative Assistant to Senator Ed Markey, where she led the office’s appropriations process and the small business portfolio. Previously, Karlee served as a Legislative Correspondent for then-Senator Bill Nelson. Preceding her tenure on Capitol Hill, Karlee distinguished herself as a Policy Advisor to the Irish Legislature and as an educator at the Esperanza Academy in Lawrence, MA.

Education & Credentials

Karlee holds an MPP from the University College Dublin and a B.A. in Political Science and Government and Women and Gender Studies from the College of the Holy Cross.

Practice Areas

Advanced Materials
Defense Industrial Base
Life Sciences