<I>E.J. Harris/East Oregonian Publishing Group</I><BR>Karen Hill, who has retired after 14 years at Blue Mountain Community?College.

PENDLETON – Karen Hill never ventured far from home. Born in Enterprise and graduating from Wallowa High School, Hill attended Eastern Oregon College and then landed in Pendleton.

Hill left her office, retiring from Blue Mountain Community College this week, but her lack of wanderlust won’t change much.

“We’re not traveling the world or buying a motor home,” she said. “After working full-time for so many years, just being home is a treat. It will be a real treat.”

Armed with a degree in business administration, Hill spent 10 years as executive director of the United Way of Umatilla County before being hired as the first executive director at the Blue Mountain Community College Foundation.

During the past 14 years she’s worn a variety of hats at Blue Mountain, with stints as the college’s marketing director, the student ambassador adviser and overseeing student recruitment. Most recently Hill has served as the director of public information and director of the newly formed BMCC Alumni & Friends Association.

“I’ve always had a healthy mix of duties,” she said.

Regardless of what task she undertakes, Margaret Gianotti, executive director of the college’s foundation, and Kim Puzey, chairman of the board of trustees, said Hill tackles it with passion and energy.

“It’s tough to describe someone who is so thoroughly engaged in the betterment of an institution – that would be Karen,” Puzey said. “She has an affection for both the institution and its importance to the community, but also to the individuals who work there and come there to learn.”

“She knows what people’s needs are and she does great things for students and she does extraordinary things for co-workers,” Gianotti added.

Hill said working at United Way opened her eyes to many of the needs in the community. The job at BMCC, Hill said, has been a great match for her – being able to raise money for student scholarships and promote educational programs.

“I love working for an organization that changes people’s lives,” she said.

Puzey said Hill is a key player in impacting other’s lives.

“She is empathetic in regards for our students and their needs,” he said. “She has considerable breadth and depth and a thorough commitment.”

Hill points to Gianotti and Susan Plass, her everyday officemates, as key in making the work environment enjoyable.

“We share the good news, the bad hair days and the ugly deadlines,” Hill said. “And we all believe that BMCC is the best place to work.”

The best part of her job, Hill said, is that she gets to work with dozens of people across the college district, which encompasses Wallowa County.

“They are what make coming to work a pleasure,” she said. “I also like hearing from alumni and getting stories about the early days at the college.”

Reflecting over the years, Hill said the first BMCC Foundation scholarship reception was magical – watching the interactions between benefactors and students receiving scholarship awards.

Reading student essays on scholarship applications, Hill said, shows how important education is to many young people and the lengths they’re willing to go to get a degree.

“It is humbling to know students who work two jobs and will sleep in their car to make ends meet, so they can stay in class – education is their ticket to a better life,” she said.

Championing individuals, Gianotti said, is something Hill excels at.

“She motivates others to always do better and be their best,” she said.

Hill also has fond memories of helping with the American Indian powwow during Arts & Culture Week and volunteering for the BMCC Christmas Eve Dinner.

“Talk about a community event where you feel the Christmas spirit – my family and I always leave with a happy heart, a full stomach and a better appreciation for our many blessings,” she said.

Hill and her husband, Fritz, live in Pendleton. Fritz is a fourth-generation Helix rancher. Although retired from running the daily operations at Hill Ranches, he still works during harvest.

The couple has done extensive remodeling of their house over the years. During the weekends Hill works in the yard.

“It’s going to be really nice,” she said. “It’s been great working, but I’m looking forward to the next part in kicking back a bit.”