Karen Van Schouwen serves as Director of Annual Giving at Dordt University, where she connects donors and supporters to the mission of Christian higher education. Her work spans direct mail, email, phone outreach, and personal meetings—each interaction an opportunity to share the story of what God is doing through Dordt's students, faculty, and staff.
Karen says the relationships she builds are what inspire her most.
"I am continually encouraged by opportunities to interact with students and see firsthand how donor support shapes their Dordt experience," she says. "I'm also inspired by the stories donors share—their commitment to Christian higher education and their willingness to give faithfully year after year."
For Karen, faith shapes the way she approaches every conversation and responsibility at work.
"My faith is a reminder that every conversation, project, and relationship is ultimately an opportunity to serve God faithfully," she says. "It shapes both the purpose behind my work and the manner in which I seek to carry it out."
Outside of work, Karen enjoys traveling with her husband and four children, landscaping and gardening, interior design, and baking. She also makes time for reading, particularly theology and books that explore the connection between faith and everyday life.