Posted by Dr. David Zerbe on 12/18/2023 1:00:00 PM
Karen Henry says she has a natural gift of fixing things. So when challenges come her way, it’s no surprise that she faces them head-on with passion and authenticity. As a high school student and three-sport athlete, she had to persevere through injuries and work through balancing academics with athletics. Today, a recent ovarian cancer diagnosis has added a new complexity to her story but she remains undeterred in this fight. “I no longer fear cancer, I embrace it. It’s just one of the many individual parts that make me who I am.”
Reflecting on her life as a student, Karen says her coach, Barb Clipsham, taught her many lessons outside of the classroom. “When I struggled academically, she was the first [to get me in line] and make sure that grades came first. Being a good teammate was far more important than being a standout player. She instilled in me the importance of hard work, leadership, mental strength and courage.”
When asked about her favorite Methacton memory, Karen transported back to the 1986 State Championship game for field hockey. “The entire school [was] cheering for us in the stands. I saved a penalty shot with all eyes on me!” After graduation, Karen went on to play Division 1 Field Hockey at Michigan State University and the University of Delaware.
Professionally, Karen has served 23 years in the pharmaceutical industry and currently works as a Pharmaceutical Strategic Alliances Partner at Bristol Myers Squibb. Yet, her proudest accomplishment remains being a mom, being a champion for equality, and embracing her true self. "My daughter, Ella, is a junior now at Methacton, and it makes me proud to see her getting to experience just a small bit about me when I was her age."
Karen's advice to current Methacton students reflects her own philosophy: “Make it your mission to make somebody else’s day better. Live a life of love and purpose. The best version of you is still to come, so always be your true authentic self!”
