Influencer of the Week: Karen Hewett, Lake Whitney Elementary

Karen Hewett serves as the community outreach coordinator at Lake Whitney Elementary School.

By Danielle Hendrix
| 4:45 p.m. March 18, 2020

Southwest Orange
Neighborhood

Karen Hewett has served as the community outreach coordinator at Lake Whitney Elementary School since 2012, having started first as a parent volunteer in 2005. She always greets people with a smile on her face and is quick to jump in and fill a need that arises. She takes pride in her role and does an excellent job of keeping the school and community in touch.

What do you love most about your school?

This school has become my family. The connections I have made with staff, parents and students is what I’m all about.

What's your favorite part of your job?

I am a people person, so anytime I can interact with people, I am at my happiest.

What made you want to take on this job?

I was the volunteer liaison at Lake Whitney as a parent volunteer, and I loved being the person that got to be involved with the parents that donated their time to make our school as amazing as it is. I truly admire those that donate and invest in their community, and it starts with your child’s school. So when our principal needed a position filled, I signed right up!

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

The people around me are always my motivation. Anytime I feel or see a need to jump in and help, it’s super motivating. I feel like I truly contribute to making things easier or better for anyone I can. It’s very motivating but also super fulfilling.

What's the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

My principal has nominated me for Coordinator of the Year, and I won OCPS Community Outreach Coordinator of the Year! It is so humbling to know that all the hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. I always feel appreciated for all I do. I feel that is the nicest thing anyone can do for you — make you feel appreciated.

What is the coolest place you have visited and why?

My husband and I took our sons, Jacob and Luca, across country by train. It was amazing. We also honeymooned in Alaska, which was epic! And we have been to St. John’s and Nova Scotia. They were amazing trips.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I have tried for years to be at two or three places at once, but haven’t perfected that yet!

Do you have any pets? What kind, and what are their names?

Yes! We have a Chiweenie named JD. He was named for our rescue dog that has since passed away. Her name was Jersey Girl. We brought JD home for a companion for Jersey Girl, so we named him JD, which stands for Jersey’s Dog.

If you could see any musician, band or artist live, who would it be and why?

I’m a huge rock music fan for sure! I’ve been to a lot of concerts over the years. Two bands that I would have loved to have seen live are Rush and Journey.