Her Story
About Karen
Karen Zeferino, D.M.A., is a Brazilian choral educator, conductor, and music educator who serves as Director of Choral Activities at Greenville University. In this role, she directs the GU Choir and Choral Union while teaching courses in music theory and keyboarding. She also serves as Director of Music at O’Fallon First United Methodist Church and has held teaching and conducting roles in both Brazil and the United States. With approximately a decade of experience in music education, Karen has developed a career centered on choral performance, conducting, teaching, and mentorship.
Karen began her musical career in Brazil, where she earned her bachelor's degree in music and worked with youth and community choirs. She later taught elementary and middle school music before moving to the United States to pursue advanced studies. She earned a Master of Music in Conducting from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Performance from the University of Memphis, specializing in choral conducting and organ. During her doctoral studies, she served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, assisting with university choirs and teaching advanced conducting. Her doctoral degree represents one of her most significant professional accomplishments, providing a pathway into higher education teaching.
As an educator and conductor, Karen is passionate about creating meaningful musical experiences and opportunities for students while contributing to the broader field of music education. She is affiliated with professional organizations including the American Choral Directors Association and the National Association for Music Education, and she aims to continue publishing, attending professional conferences, building professional connections, and creating opportunities for her students. She credits mentors including Andrea Agnezini in Brazil and Dr. Paul Krabs for influencing her professional development, as well as her faith and the support of her parents for helping shape her journey. Outside of her professional work, Karen enjoys painting, coloring books, visiting parks, watching movies and theater, cooking, and baking, while also hoping to travel more and spend time with family in Brazil.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to God, whose will and love have guided me throughout my journey. I am also deeply grateful to my parents in Brazil for their unwavering support and sacrifices, which have given me the opportunity to pursue my dreams.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to stay strong, especially when I feel like I’m failing. Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey, but perseverance and resilience can help you overcome them. The path may be difficult, but staying committed and believing in yourself makes it worthwhile.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to stay true to who you are while remaining open to feedback and new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—even when you’re scared, keep moving forward. There is tremendous growth that comes from embracing challenges with courage and an open mind.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in higher education include reduced funding and the need for stronger support for professors and students. At the same time, there are opportunities to build stronger community partnerships, demonstrate the importance of education, and strengthen connections among universities, professors, and students through collaboration and networking.
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