Karen Shaw

Background

About Karen Shaw

I have over 25 years of experience in building relationships with alumni and friends to support the efforts of nonprofit organizations. In particular, I have spent the past 15 years in higher education, honing my expertise in breaking down the silos of units and initiatives and finding intersections for partnerships and growth. My professional passion is in developing the talent of University Advancement team members, providing professional development opportunities, skills assessment and an open forum for the identification of a team member's strengths and interests. In addition, I am skilled in linking alumni and friends of a university to programs and people with whom they have an affinity in order to develop deeper and more lasting relationships. I recognize the value that alumni and professional connections bring to current students through their expertise, life experiences and personal path through college and beyond. My goal is to ensure that advancement professionals are working to their strengths and passions and alumni have the most meaningful link to their university through affinity groups, volunteer opportunities and philanthropic engagement and that community partners gain value from their relationship while providing impactful opportunities to students, faculty and staff. Specialties: I have a strong background in working with diverse populations and in recognizing the unique skills and strengths that team members bring to an organization. I provide a meaningful link between universities and their alumni and friends. I excel in written and spoken communication.