Karen Schueler
The University of Delaware Women’s Club is delighted to share the many reasons its 2016 Woman of the Year is Karen Schueler. As most members know, it is through Karen’s gentle persuasion and extraordinary communication skills that the Club has continued to thrive without an official president, board, or newsletter. Now as UDWC’s Leadership Team “leader,” she deserves recognition for her many-year presidency and serving in critical roles as membership chair, treasurer of the club, and chairing the Stitchery Group. Also, from time to time, serving as unofficial newsletter editor, pollster, as a conduit for interesting information, as club archivist, organizer of field trips, and more!
Karen and her husband George Frederick Schueler (Fred) came to Delaware in 2007, when he was hired as Chair of the UD Philosophy Department. They met at Stanford University, finished a Painting B.A. and a Doctorate in Philosophy at UC Berkeley, and moved to New Mexico where they lived for 36 years and raised two sons.
Karen credits the many fiber arts organizations she has joined in New Mexico and Delaware for providing opportunities for her to further her skills in embroidery and surface design at local and national seminars and workshops. And whatever club she has joined, she has helped where needed as newsletter editor, secretary, program leader, project director, or president. Locally she is on the Exhibition Committee of the Newark Arts Alliance, and exhibits with the Fiber Dimensions group.
Gardening is another interest. In the Newark area, Karen has joined many gardening organizations learning from lectures, workshops and garden tours how to improve her own garden. She has been president for several years of the Weed and Seed Garden Club in Newark.
Now celebrating 50 years of marriage, Karen and Fred have two granddaughters in San Diego, while the other son and wife live in Milwaukee. Fred retired in 2013, so they look forward to more opportunities to travel to see family.
Karen encourages all of us to actively participate in the organizations that we join. Groups thrive when members volunteer to help, and the individuals benefit from the opportunities to improve skills and develop new interests and friends.
Congratulations Karen!