Karen Kennedy is the current Chairman of the Founders Advisory Council. She is a proud beneficiary of a Catholic education that began at St. Joseph School in Homewood, IL, and continued through Marian Catholic High School and St. Mary’s College, where she earned a degree in accounting.
Karen began her professional career at Arthur Andersen in Chicago before taking a hiatus to raise her and her husband, Tom’s, four daughters. She later joined the family business, Kennedy Mazda, which Tom founded 36 years ago. In her spare time, Karen enjoys traveling, gardening, and cherishing moments with their 13 grandchildren.
What inspired you to get involved with Big Shoulders Fund and its mission?
My husband, Tom, and I were inspired to join the Big Shoulders Fund nearly 15 years ago, thanks to the encouragement of our dear friends, Beth and the late Bruce White. We began our journey by mentoring ten third-grade students at Immaculate Conception School in Chicago, meeting with them monthly throughout their elementary years until they graduated from eighth grade. Over the years, our bond with these students deepened significantly, creating a profound and lasting connection. This experience has become the most rewarding volunteer endeavor we have ever undertaken, enriching our lives in ways we never anticipated.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience you've had working with Big Shoulders schools or students?
One of the most memorable moments was the graduation ceremony of our students. Emanuel, one of our most dedicated mentees, was the valedictorian. As he stood before a packed church, he radiated confidence and made the bold decision to speak from the heart rather than sticking to his prepared script. In that heartfelt address, he expressed profound gratitude to his parents for their sacrifices so that he could attend Immaculate Conception, celebrated the friendships he forged with his classmates, and acknowledged the invaluable guidance of his teachers. Emanuel candidly admitted that while he may not have appreciated their corrections in the moment, he ultimately learned the most from those experiences. Reflecting on our very first meeting with him as a bright-eyed nine-year-old who delighted in sharing his imaginative drawings, I was deeply moved by his remarkable transformation into a confident young man poised for a promising future.
Why do you believe investing in education, especially in underserved communities, is so critical?
Monsignor Ken Velo, co-chairman of Big Shoulders Fund, wisely stated, "education is the best anti-poverty program ever." I fully endorse this powerful assertion, as education not only equips individuals with essential skills but also opens doors to opportunities, empowering them to break the poverty cycle.
What role do you think the Founders Advisory Council plays in the future of Big Shoulders Fund?
The Founders Advisory Council is instrumental in advancing the mission of Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana by actively raising awareness and sharing members’ talents and resources. By convening our monthly meetings at various Big Shoulders schools, we not only gain insights into each school's unique strengths and challenges but also foster meaningful connections with staff and students. This immersive approach has proven invaluable, significantly enhancing our understanding of Big Shoulders NWI's impact within the community and allowing us to better support its initiatives.
Finish the sentence: "A strong education is the foundation for…"
The future! Not only for the student, but also for their family, their community, and the nation as a whole. The growth and development of these students herald a brighter tomorrow for everyone.
