At Utah Tech, the infrastructure didn't exist, so I built it one stubborn conversation at a time. "We've never done it that way before" is just "yes" in disguise.
Karin Edwards MPA, MAA, CFRE, SHRM-CP · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Karin
Karin Edwards, MPA, MAA, CFRE, SHRM-CP, is a passionate leader with a background in non-profit leadership and arts administration. She has over 25 years of experience in research, marketing, guided product development, producing theatrical events, managing arts companies, and touring. She currently serves as President of the City of St. George Arts Commission and as a Philanthropy Officer for Intermountain Health's Desert Region. She came from an arts background as the Company Manager of the Utah Shakespeare Festival and as the Arts Programming Coordinator at Utah Tech University. Karin brings unmatched dedication to fostering vibrant cultural experiences and has coordinated large-scale operations with annual impacts exceeding $85 million. She thrives in collaborative environments that value excellence, integrity, and creativity.
Karin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communications with a minor in Spanish from Brigham Young University. She served a mission for her church and lived in South America for a year and a half, where she had the opportunity to use her Spanish language skills daily. Her educational background also includes a Master of Public Administration and a second Master of Arts Administration from Southern Utah University. Known for her meticulous approach and warm advocacy, she excels in cultivating meaningful relationships, championing the arts, and creating experiences that inspire and delight. Her enthusiasm for detail, from a color-coded spreadsheet to thoughtfully crafted events, reflects her belief that excellence lies in both vision and execution.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Karin is a dedicated advocate for her community and the arts. She delights in mentoring colleagues, engaging audiences, and building connections that strengthen cultural vitality. Her personal passions include foreign languages, travel, board games, and animal rehabilitation. Karin’s unique blend of creativity, strategic leadership, and heartfelt dedication makes her a transformative force in the community of St. George, Utah.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karin
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a cocktail of curiosity, caffeine, and a calendar that borders on sentient. Honestly, it’s been a journey powered by grit, grace, and the occasional spreadsheet-induced epiphany. I’ve spent years in the arts world learning how to juggle flaming swords—figuratively, of course—while keeping artists, audiences, and donors inspired and engaged. That taught me how to lead with heart, communicate with clarity, and pivot with style.
Now, stepping into healthcare philanthropy with Intermountain Health, I’ve discovered that the same skills apply—just with fewer costumes and more cardiologists. Whether I’m stewarding a major gift or helping build a legacy campaign that will shape the future of community health, I’m still doing what I love: connecting people to purpose. Success, for me, has always been about showing up with integrity, listening deeply, and believing that generosity is contagious. Also, never underestimate the power of a well-timed pun and a thank-you note written with actual joy.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received? “Don’t wait for permission to lead.” That little nugget of wisdom showed up early in my career and has been my north star ever since. Whether I was wrangling stage crews, managing donor portfolios, or now helping build healthier communities through healthcare philanthropy, I’ve learned that leadership is less about titles and more about showing up with purpose, clarity, and a good sense of humor.
Also—never underestimate the power of baked goods. A warm cookie can diffuse tension faster than a strategic plan, and recognizing the brilliance of others? That’s the secret sauce. When people feel seen, valued, and occasionally fed, magic happens. So yes, lead boldly, listen deeply, and always keep snacks on hand.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
What advice would I give to young women entering this industry? Don’t wait to be “ready”—just start. The truth is, no one feels 100% qualified when they step into a big role, but confidence grows in motion. Say yes to opportunities that scare you a little (or a lot), ask smart questions, and never be afraid to take up space in the room—even if you’re the only woman in it.
First, know that your voice is powerful—use it. Whether you’re fundraising for the arts, healthcare, or any mission-driven organization, you’re not just asking for money; you’re inviting people to be part of something meaningful. That takes courage, clarity, and a whole lot of heart.
Second, don’t be afraid to be both strategic and empathetic. You can be the person who reads the room and also reads the budget. Learn to listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and trust your instincts—they’re usually right, even when they whisper.
And finally, build your circle. Learn to recognize brilliance in others—it’s not just generous, it’s strategic. When you lift people up, they tend to bring you with them. So surround yourself with people who challenge you, cheer for you, and remind you that you’re capable of more than you think. Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifeline.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in philanthropy right now? Everyone wants impact, but fewer people want inboxes. We’re living in a world where attention spans are shorter than a TikTok dance, and donors are savvier than ever. They want transparency, authenticity, and a compelling reason to give, preferably without a 12-page proposal or a gala that requires formalwear and parking validation.
But here’s the opportunity: people are hungry for connection. Whether it’s in healthcare, the arts, or education, donors want to be part of something bigger than themselves. They want to heal, uplift, and leave a legacy. And we get to help them do that. We’re not just fundraisers—we’re matchmakers between generosity and purpose.
Also, the rise of data-driven storytelling means we can finally prove that warm fuzzies and spreadsheets can coexist. It’s a beautiful time to be in this field—if you’re willing to adapt, listen, and occasionally laugh at the chaos.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Kindness, integrity, and a well-tuned sense of humor are the values I hold closest in both work and life. I believe in showing up with authenticity, treating people with respect, and doing what I say I’ll do.
I value empathy and curiosity—because listening well and asking thoughtful questions can open doors that credentials alone can’t. I also believe in celebrating the brilliance of others. When you create space for people to shine, the whole team gets brighter.
And above all, I try to lead with generosity, not just in giving, but in spirit. That means being generous with time, encouragement, and grace. Assume positive intention for the world around you. Especially when the Wi-Fi goes down or someone accidentally replies-all.
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