Getting to know Karen Stout

Title: Professor in the Communication Department

What do you love most about your department? “How collegial we are with each other. We really respect each other so we can get the work done for the organization.”

Years at Western: 13th year

Originally from: Kent. Attended Kent-Meridian high school then University of Puget Sound for undergrad.

Hobbies: Hanging out with her kids, playing piano bass guitar, and quilting.

Favorite quote: “When we cast our bread upon the waters, we can presume that someone downstream whose face we will never know will benefit from our action, as we who are downstream from another will profit from that grantor's gift.” -Maya Angelou

Favorite restaurant: La Fiamma Pizza in Downtown

Favorite Bellingham location: Boulevard Park

Most memorable vacation: Six week road trip across country in a motorhome with her 19th month old and newborn baby.

Favorite WWU memory: “Hard to think of just one, but seeing students transform in the community and getting to know the students.”

Favorite movie: Harry Potter series & “The Shawshank Redemption”

Currently reading: “The Source” by James Michener

Projects currently working on:

• Faculty Senate President for the second year
• Thesis committee for former grad student

Awards and recognition:

• 2012 Harry “Bud” Hazel Outstanding Service Award from the Northwest Communication Association
• 2012 Team Recognition Award for Back@Bellingham Weekend from WWU