Raised in Neillsville, WI, Karen Klein ’92 is passionate about the UW. She is an avid Badger football fan, loves to travel, and consistently seeks opportunities to make a positive impact. Her ongoing philanthropy focuses on education, and she is thrilled to join the Wisconsin Philanthropy Council (WPC) in support of the university.
- Where is your hometown?
- I was born in Milwaukee and raised in Neillsville, WI. I currently live in the suburbs of Chicago.
- How did you hear about the WPC?
- I learned about the WPC as part of my research on the various options for donating to UW–Madison and was very inspired by the description of the council.
- Describe your connection to UW–Madison.
- I am a 1992 graduate and was active on Homecoming committee and in the Greek system. My husband, who is not a UW alum, proposed to me on the Memorial Union. My oldest daughter completed her coursework at UW–Madison in December 2021 and will graduate this May. She has also been a very active member on Homecoming committee and in the Greek system, as well as serving as the sports editor of the Daily Cardinal. I have been a football season ticket holder for over 20 years. My husband is fond of wearing his “I Married into This” Badger T-shirt on game days.
- How do you spend your time?
- I work full-time as a lawyer. I also serve as the chair of the advisory board at my law school and as a member of the board of trustees of another university. Our leisure time is spent attending sporting events and traveling. I previously worked in the travel industry for 18 years and believe firmly in a “life well-traveled.” My philanthropic efforts are all focused on education.
- What is something important/fun for the WPC to know about you?
- Bucky was an usher at my wedding!