Karen McCullough serves as the Director of Scholarship Stewardship and Development at the Purdue for Life Foundation, where she leverages her extensive experience in higher education to enhance the scholarship experience for students and donors alike. With 15 years of progressive leadership in customer-facing roles,...
Karen McCullough serves as the Director of Scholarship Stewardship and Development at the Purdue for Life Foundation, where she leverages her extensive experience in higher education to enhance the scholarship experience for students and donors alike. With 15 years of progressive leadership in customer-facing roles, Karen excels at building relationships and fostering diverse networks that drive collaboration across departments. Her role as a liaison between the Division of Financial Aid and the University Development Office is pivotal; she augments and streamlines the stewardship of university-level scholarships, ensuring that they are not only effectively managed but also aligned with the institution's strategic goals.
Karen's expertise in grant administration and project management allows her to review scholarship endowment agreements meticulously, ensuring that funds are consistently awarded to deserving students. She acts as a vital resource for front-line fundraisers, providing insights and strategies that enhance their efforts in securing philanthropic support. Her ability to read people and establish connections is complemented by her skills in public speaking and engagement, making her a sought-after partner in networking events and collaborative initiatives.
Currently, Karen is spearheading key projects aimed at re-envisioning scholarship stewardship processes, enhancing donor engagement, and promoting a culture of giving within the Purdue community. Her background in music education and choral leadership further enriches her approach, allowing her to bring creativity and passion to her work. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on strategic solutions, Karen McCullough is not only shaping the future of scholarship management at Purdue but also empowering students to achieve their academic dreams.