By Jordan Beach
Reinhardt University’s Karen Mathews will serve a two-year term on the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors, furthering her commitment of connecting Reinhardt students with the community.
Mathews, who serves as director of vocation and career services, has lived in Cherokee County with her husband, Neil, for more than 12 years. She’s been involved with the Chamber since 2013, when she participated in Leadership Cherokee, and went on to serve her first term on the board of directors in 2015-17.
“My experience with the Chamber has created opportunities to learn about my community, growth of the business community, the changing landscape of Canton, Woodstock, Ball Ground, Waleska and all the surrounding communities of Cherokee County,” Mathews said.
Throughout her time at Reinhardt University, Mathews has interacted with local business and community leaders to show students all the county has to offer after graduation.
“Through the wide variety of events and activities to engage business and community leaders, I have created lasting relationships that benefit me personally but also provide strong connections for collaborating for the benefit of Reinhardt’s students and the local job market.”
With the events and activities Mathews plans, such as the Workforce Wednesday series that brings business representatives to campus, she utilizes her connections to build relationships with the community.
“Reinhardt has the unique opportunity to build strong collaborative relationships with the business community which will foster local workforce development initiatives and for students to explore career opportunities within their own communities.
During her term on the board of directors, Mathews hopes to continue forming and strengthening those relationships.
“I look forward to building upon those strong collaborative relationships already established and to grow in my awareness of the everchanging landscape of this country, a place where I not only work but have built a strong and meaningful life.”
