Spirit of Youth

Karen Zeman

Executive Director

When Karen moved to Alaska from Atlanta she made the mistake of wearing a business suit, heels and up-do to her interview (something the teens at Spirit of Youth relentlessly teased her about). She has since adapted to Alaska’s fashion trends and has become very involved in her community.

Karen has been the Executive Director at Spirit of Youth since 2008 and thoroughly enjoys working with our fabulous teens, staff, board and community partners. She previously worked for Boys & Girls Clubs of America where she oversaw their outcome measurement and program planning initiatives. She also managed programs related to youth financial literacy and job readiness and assisted local Boys & Girls Clubs to improve their services. Karen has worked with teens for more than 20 years and says she is constantly amazed by their dedication, creativity and caring.

Karen grew up in Wisconsin where she earned her wings in snow and freezing temperatures, developed a strong love of cheese but never managed to cultivate a taste for football.

She holds a a Masters of Public Administration from UAS, and a Graduate Certificate in Education as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Portland State University.

 

Rosey Robards

Director Alaska Teen Media Institute

Rosey Robards has been the Director at ATMI since November 2007. She says this is “the best job ever!” and we think she means it! She graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a degree in Journalism and Public Communications in May of 2005.

You might recognize Rosey’s name from publications such as the Anchorage Daily News, AK This Month and The Northern Light, where she was editor-in-chief for the 2003-2004 academic year. Her passion is writing feature stories, especially those that include music and art. She has experience in radio, photography, multimedia journalism and web design.

 

Marnie Stewart

Coalition Coordinator