Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System

Karen H. Johnson, director of the Division of International Finance, will retire at the end of October, after 28 years of service with the Federal Reserve Board, including nearly 10 years as division director.

"Karen's leadership of her division and her insight into the workings of the global economy have been of immeasurable value," Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said. "We will miss her wise counsel, astute judgment, and dedicated service."

Ms. Johnson advises the Chairman, Board members and the Federal Open Market Committee on economic and financial developments in foreign countries. In addition, she represents the Board at international meetings and in its contacts with foreign central banks.

Ms. Johnson began her career at the Federal Reserve Board in 1979 as an economist. She was appointed assistant director in 1985 and associate director in 1997. She was appointed division director in October, 1998. Prior to joining the Board she was on the faculty at Stanford University.