About Karen Whitney

I've served in various leadership capacities in public education for over 40 years. For over half of my career I've held executive-level, higher education, and administrative positions in Texas, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.
 
In addition to my work in higher education, I have served on a variety of boards including membership on a rural community college board, a community development board in metropolitan Indianapolis, and various community-based boards and organizations dedicated to the public good.  I am currently serving as the president of my homeowner’s association in Brownsburg, Indiana.

I developed a strong work ethic while supporting myself through college. I worked multiple jobs, carried a full course load, and was involved in a variety of student organizations. During my college experience, I realized the transformative impact of college on myself and others. As a result, I dedicated my life to higher education knowing that a college education enables students to create great lives and livelihoods for themselves

From 1999 to 2010, I served as the Vice Chancellor of student life at Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI) in Indianapolis, and led the institution to develop a robust campus life that supported students’ success and graduation. In 2010, I was recruited to become the 16th president of Clarion University in Clarion, Pennsylvania, and led the University to meet its mission and serve the region with excellence and distinction. Since 2018, I have served in a variety of leadership capacities and am a consultant and advisor to college presidents.
 
Now I am looking to take my experiences in leadership and bring them to the Indiana statehouse. With the issues our state is facing today, we need a new voice to fight for the interests of the 28th District. I look forward to serving you!