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Q&A with Karen Brifu-Lacy ’04

We caught up with Trustee Karen Brifu-Lacy ’04 to gain insight into what keeps her connected to Emma Willard School, and what inspired her unrestricted giving to the Infinite Horizon campaign.

How has your experience at Emma Willard influenced the person you are today? 
I am confident and have an awareness of self that has really been a great part of my success, and I owe that to my experiences at Emma.

What is unchanging about Emma?
Shared traditions are what keeps the students bonded over decades. We all know what they are, how we felt, and the roles we played.

What inspired your unrestricted gift to the Infinite Horizon campaign? 
Being on the Board, I have an appreciation of the maintenance and projects that will evolve the Emma campus and continue to keep Emma as a top school, and I want to ensure that my funding can be used where we see the most need.

What inspires your leadership and service to Emma? 
I have always sought out opportunities to pave the way forward for my fellow Emma alum or current students since graduating Emma. It started out with mentoring students and playing the role of the Giving Chair for Reunion, then joining the AAC, and now serving on the Board of Trustees. This is how I stay connected to an institution that is important to me.

What is the importance of our school's mission?
Continuing to build the next wave of women leaders that are not afraid to lead from whatever seat they choose in the world.

What do you see on the horizon for Emma Willard? 
I am excited that over time students will get to experience an evolved Emma. Giving allows for the school to transform its technology, physical space, educational resources, and so much more; I am humbled that I get to continue to be a part of this evolution along with many others who give.