As the Director of KidSpirit, Karen leads by example, embracing the philanthropic opportunities available to grow her program’s impact thoughtfully, both for now and the future. She embodies her strong conviction to inspire youth and staff to exemplify integrity, empathy, perseverance, and optimism.
Karen is a steadfast donor and fundraiser, partnering in efforts to create at-once funding for the programs she serves. On top of that, while most units have utilized the OSU Foundation’s annual Dam Proud Day to raise funds for immediate use, Karen has taken a long view by focusing on growing an endowment to make KidSpirit more accessible to youth of all backgrounds, in perpetuity.
In addition to her enthusiastic participation in Dam Proud Day, Karen has engaged with the OSU Foundation’s Women’s Giving Circle – successfully applying for grants that helped KidSpirit launch the “Girls on the Run” program and created a “Positive Youth Development Coaching Certificate” for students interested in becoming youth coaches.
Ilene Kleinsorge was the inaugural recipient of the OSU Foundation’s OSU Loyal Philanthropic Partner Award.
Throughout her career and in her personal dedication, Ilene has been an invaluable collaborator and constant champion for OSU, our students, and programs. We thank her for her commitment to supporting philanthropy at OSU.
