Karen Hoekstra joined the Johnson Center for Philanthropy in 2015. As marketing and communications manager, she leads the design and dissemination of the center’s branded communications efforts, including the Johnson Center website, email newsletters, and publications such as The Foundation Review and the annual 11 Trends in Philanthropy report.

Karen’s approach to her work prioritizes accessible, data-informed design and is guided by the belief that communication is most powerful when it embraces clear, conscious, and person-centered language.

Prior to joining the Johnson Center, Karen worked in graphic design and marketing for nearly two decades, serving nonprofit organizations across West Michigan, as well as leading the creative teams at both a small advertising agency and a local TV station. Karen studied visual communications at Kendall College of Art and Design at Ferris State University.

In her personal philanthropic efforts, Karen supports organizations focused on the protection of human rights, access to reproductive healthcare, and a more open and equitable democracy.