is a writer whose poetry has appeared in Salamander, Superstition Review, Houseguest, Yes, Poetry, On the Seawall, and elsewhere. She holds a B.A. in English and Philosophy from Suffolk University and an M.F.A in Creative Writing from the University of New Hampshire. She has worked for art nonprofits, in higher education, and has taught creative writing, English, and social studies at high schools and universities. She is the co-host and creator of the Life Backstage podcast for The Music Hall, an arts and cultural organization. Originally from New Hampshire, Kristen has lived in Madrid, Spain, Prague, Czech Republic, and currently resides in San Francisco, California.