Karen Holbrook Retires After 14 Years at USF Sarasota-Manatee, Leaving a Legacy of Leadership and Growth
Karen Holbrook, a trailblazer in higher education, is concluding her 14-year tenure at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, where she served as regional chancellor for the past seven years. Her leadership has been marked by significant contributions to the campus and the broader community, culminating in a heartfelt retirement celebration on December 11 at the recently opened Student Center and Atala Residence Hall.
During the event, Holbrook was honored with a key to the city in recognition of her transformative impact. The Atala Residence Hall, a project she championed, stands as a testament to her vision and dedication. Opened in August, it is the university's first new campus structure since 2006 and a critical milestone.
At USF Sarasota-Manatee, Holbrook spearheaded the expansion of academic programs to meet workforce demands, including initiatives in the aviation ecosystem, risk management, insurance, and health sciences. Under her leadership, the university strengthened its commitment to healthcare education, producing nurses and specialists to serve the region. Her efforts also bolstered faculty research and community engagement, leaving a lasting legacy.
Two initiatives were announced during her retirement celebration to honor her contributions. The Dr. Karen A. Holbrook Legacy of Leadership fundraising campaign will name the office of the global engagement initiative, USF World, in her honor. Additionally, the Perlman Music Program SunCoast will dedicate its 2024-2025 winter residency to Holbrook, acknowledging her support for the arts.
Beyond her role at USF Sarasota-Manatee, Holbrook has had an illustrious career. She has held leadership positions at prestigious institutions, including Ohio State University, the University of Georgia, and the University of Florida. She has also served on numerous national and local boards, demonstrating her commitment to education and community development.
As she retires, Holbrook looks forward to spending time with her family and reflecting on her next chapter. Her departure marks the end of an era at USF Sarasota-Manatee, but her contributions will continue to inspire students, faculty, and the community for years to come. Brett Kemker will step into the role of interim regional chancellor, tasked with carrying forward the vision and momentum she established.