Colleagues remember Karen Muir

Update | Tuesday, September 6, 2022

Long-serving Columbus State professor and administrator Karen Muir passed away on August 26. Muir began as an associate professor of anthropology and sociology in the Social Sciences Department in 1989. In 2012, she transitioned to a role as an associate vice president for three years. In 2015, she returned to the classroom as a faculty member before retiring earlier this year.
Read the obituary. 

Colleagues recall how Muir “cared deeply” about her students and others and her genuine commitment to the profession.

Scott Hunt, professor: Karen was a mentor and a true friend of mine. I met her as I became part of the SBS at CSCC back in the early 1990s. Our small collection of professors worked well together in the era of sharing offices and enjoyed each others' company in Aquinas Hall. I always valued Karen's opinion, insight, and concern for students. She always spoke of her children, and I'll always remember the days when Shaina would be in the office. Our trip to Mexico brings back fond memories. The morning breakfasts together, visiting cultural sites, establishing courses, and becoming a more tight-knit faculty group and friends. We would talk about soccer events and family every day in the office. I taught at Delaware before the pandemic and was able to stop in once in a while to Karen's office and catch up on things. I truly will miss her.

Kristine Kinzer, Delaware Campus Reference and Instruction coordinator: I admired Karen as an educator because she cared deeply about her students, was passionate about her field, and was an excellent collaborator. I have no doubt that she changed the lives and career goals of many students. But more than that, Karen was funny, intelligent, and empathetic – a genuine people person and a fascinating person to be around. She will be greatly missed.

Jeff Akers, Social Science chairperson: Karen cared deeply about others and, in particular, her students. In my interactions with her, she always led by asking about my family and me. As an academic, the challenges of the pandemic brought out the best in Karen as she became even more flexible, compassionate, empathetic, and kind. Her thoughtful responses to the needs of students were so admirable. Her loss will be felt throughout the department and the College.

 

 

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