Leaders in Philanthropy: Cultivating social justice champions

The Rev. Kären Rasmussen has been a steady presence in the Carthage community and a true leader in philanthropy.

After retiring as a commander in the U.S. Navy, she became an ordained minister who serves Unitarian Universalist churches in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Impressed by her vision and the nonprofit organization she created, No Child Goes Hungry, the College invited Rev. Rasmussen to join the President’s Leadership Council.

Her determination to eliminate childhood hunger inspired the children’s book “Emilio’s Very Bright Idea,” written by the Rev. Louise Green and illustrated by Penny Weber. Sales of the book support the work of No Child Goes Hungry.

Beyond her role on the PLC, Rev. Rasmussen is a member of the Alford Park, Leadership, and Denhart giving societies at Carthage. Inspired by the life and work of the late campus pastor, she established the Pastor Kara Baylor Social Justice Scholarship to support students who work for justice and create social good in the world.

Created in consultation with the Office of Equity and Inclusion, the scholarship was awarded for the first time last fall. Through her giving, Rev. Rasmussen is empowering students to generate illuminating ideas — just like Emilio.

Rev. Rasmussen’s gift supports the Scholarships and Financial Aid priority within the Light that Travels Campaign for Carthage.