How did you get your start at LCC?  What do you remember most from your first day/week/month?

I was hired 2 weeks before classes started which was a new collaboration with Clinton Co RESA for Allied Health program for high school students. I was new to teaching so I was learning each night while I created lessons for the next day.  Leaving nursing to teach was unnerving but it was a great decision.

Have you held different positions at LCC? How would you describe your career path and the role that LCC played in it?

I have been the Allied Health professor for 26 years, no other roles.

What are you looking forward to in your retirement? What plans are you most excited for?

Retirement for me will look like most people, I need to figure that out yet as the picture in my head may not be real :)  We have moved up to Northern Michigan after building on a lake so summers will be most enjoyable. I hope to continue learning new recipes and spend more time relaxing and seeing family that doesn't live so close.

Supervisor: Mary Pacitto

What's your favorite memory of this employee? Do you have any other positive thoughts to share about this individual?

Karen retired on June 1, 2026. She has left behind a lasting legacy of dedication, compassion, and service. She was an important part of launching and growing Career Connections, and positively impacted countless students and colleagues. She has taken well-deserved great pride in seeing former students succeed throughout the healthcare community. Retirement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as Karen and her family make northern Michigan their permanent home. Karen's contributions, relationships, and commitment to student success will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. Here’s to a well-deserved retirement and an exciting new adventure! Cheers to you, Karen!