It’s a great pleasure to welcome another new member into our club. New members bring with them new skills, talents and ideas that ensure we continue to help the local and international community in meaningful ways.
As is our usual practice, prospective members are invited to attend several meetings to get to know us – and for us to get to know them – while learning about our activities. Karen has joined us for a few of these gatherings, and we’re delighted to now welcome her as an official member of the team!
Karen’s induction took place at our business meeting yesterday, led by President Maxine Blades and joined by Past President Robert Yonge, who introduced Karen to the club. With a background in special needs education and a strong passion for helping others, Karen brings a wealth of experience and dedication that we deeply admire. (You can read more about her below.) We’re especially proud to note that she was awarded an OBE in 2022 in recognition of her outstanding contributions.
After highlighting Karen’s interests and accomplishments, Robert remarked with a smile, “I don’t know how you have any spare time!”
Maxine shared a few words about Rotary and the value of membership before inviting Robert to present Karen with her Rotary pin. Maxine then presented her with a club badge bearing her Rotary classification – “Headteacher” – along with a pin representing this year’s global theme: The Magic of Rotary.
When invited to say a few words, Karen said warmly, “I’ve found you all incredibly welcoming and look forward to making whatever contribution I can.”
We have no doubt that Karen will be a tremendous asset to the club, and we’re excited for all that lies ahead.
Karen’s bio:
Karen grew up on the edge of the Romney Marsh and attended The Highworth School for Girls in Ashford. It was during her 6th form education that she was required to do some community service. Sent along to the local school for children with severe and profound learning difficulties, she found her passion – advocating for those unable to speak for themselves. Karen became a specialist teacher and spent her entire career in special schools, working in several counties across the country. She became a headteacher aged just 31 and has now more than 40 years working in education – and she is still going, though very much part time basis.
Karen was appointed and worked as a national leader in education ( responsible for turning failing schools around) and has contributed to improvements in special education on a national scale. She was honoured to be awarded an OBE for this contribution, for services to the education of children with severe and profound needs in the new year’s honours list 2022.
Now semi-retired, Karen enjoys indulging in her second passion – dogs. She owns, works and shows German shorthaired pointers and owns, shows and breeds border terriers. Karen is the Chair of the Central and Southern German shorthaired pointer society which promotes the breed and organises national events for enthusiasts.
Karen also loves to read and belongs to several book clubs. She also enjoys film and theatre, walking and Pilates.
Picture: PP Robert Yonge (centre) and new member Karen Joy (right) listen attentively as President Maxine Blades (left) talks about Rotary and membership. Picture credit: Robin Vickers/Andrew Clague/The Rotary Club of Canterbury.
