On behalf of everyone at Joe’s Place, we pay honor to Dr. Karen Hall for her exceptional service to the Joe’s Place Board of Directors for nearly a decade, July 2012 – October 2020. Dr. Hall’s passion and commitment were evident to all who had the privilege of serving alongside her. Her fervent desire to give all students the necessary tools to succeed through high school and beyond was contagious. Roxanna Mechem, Acting Superintendent of MRH School District, says, “Karen Hall shared a decade-long commitment to educational equity in the MRH school district. Her leadership was instrumental in making sure that all students felt at home at MRH. Joe’s Place was just one of the many programs that Dr. Hall supported to ensure that students were secure and thriving.”
Karen Hall, Ed.D.
Dr. Hall was involved in all levels of board activity. From thoughtful contributions during meetings to volunteering at fundraising events, Dr. Hall was steadfast and humble in her service. Francis Chmelir, former Joe’s Place Board member, reflects “Throughout her tenure as Superintendent at MRH, Karen sought to clarify, strengthen and improve the relationship between the District and Joe’s Place. This helped empower the Board at Joe’s Place to seek out innovative ways to carry out their mission and improve the lives of the boys that were a part of the program. In Karen and the District’s view, Joe’s Place is a tangible aspect of a commitment to educational equity and inclusion for our community.”
Dr. Hall retired as superintendent of the Maplewood Richmond Heights School District in October 2020. Under her leadership, the District attained national recognition. Known as a regional expert on educational equity and leadership, Dr. Hall’s influence stretches far beyond the MRH community.
On behalf of the Joe’s Place family, we express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Hall for her service.