Meet the Candidates: Karen White, South Bend Common Council At-Large

Karen-White

Service to family, community, and education are the hallmarks of my life journey. Born in Buffalo, New York, I relocated to South Bend at an early age. I attended Harrison Elementary School and graduated from Central High School. I received her Bachelor’s Degree in psychology and social work from Indiana State University, Terre Haute and a Master’s in Education earned from Indiana University. I am currently the Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Services/Dean of Students at Indiana University South Bend where I have served for more than 40 years in various capacities.

I have been honored to serve as an at-large council person since January 1, 2000. From my early years on the South Bend Community School Board of Trustees until today as Council Member, I have devoted over 20 years of service to the community as an elected official.

Long recognized for my exemplary administrative leadership skills and commitment to community service, I am the recipient of multiple awards: Induction into the South Bend Hall of Fame; The Drum Major Award for Community Service; IU South Bend Distinguished Education Alumna Award; YWCA Tribute to Women Honoree in Education; Indiana University E. Ross Bartley Memorial Award; Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Award, Inc.; South Bend Alumni Chapter Achievement Award of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow; Community Service Award for Solidarity Day; Featured in the South Bend Tribune Accent section; the South Bend Police Department Outstanding Community Service Award, and the South Bend Human Rights Commission Award for Dedicated Service.

I believe in the importance of public service and am committed to making certain that our government is always responsive to the needs of our community. My priorities if elected will be:

  • Continue to enhance public safety and community relations
  • Create a structure for greater governmental transparency and civic engagement for our citizens
  • Continue and enhance the “Light Up South Bend” and Curb and Sidewalk Programs
  • Engage government, labor, business, and education sectors in economic development, job creation and employment opportunities for our youth
  • Work to ensure safe and vibrant neighborhoods

I am completing fifteen years of service as an At-Large Member of the South Bend Common Council. I have served this community with distinction and integrity and believe that the city needs my level of proven leadership.

I have earned the respect of the community based upon my experience and my willingness to tackle tough issues. I continue to approach decisions from a holistic viewpoint rather than using a one-issue point of view. I am a proven leader with a strong voice on the council. I have been commended as a council member who always tries to remain a voice of reason.

With the 2015 elections, we can expect new members on the Council. It is vital that some expertise and experience be retained. I have demonstrated my ability to work with diverse people from all populations, citizens, committees, administrators, and business leaders.

Meet the Candidates is a series introducing candidates in their own words. Articles are posted verbatim. South Bend Voice will publish articles for all South Bend office seekers who are on the May 5th primary ballot.

Tags: , , , , , ,