Karen Estella Smith

Karen Estella Smith was born and raised in Jacksonville, Fl. She is a graduate of the Florida State University with a degree in English Literature. She completed post-graduate studies in London in the area of Museum Studies.

After college, Karen began her career in public affairs and communications. Her professional background includes having worked on Capitol Hill and for the Florida Department of Education. She has also worked with various nonprofit organizations in the Jacksonville community that include the Duval County Public Schools as Marketing and Recruitment Manager for the Magnet School Program.

Her community involvement includes the United Way of Northeast Florida, where she participated in the Stein Fellowship and served as the chair for Atlantic Circle, the United Way of Northeast Florida’s young professionals’ affiliate group. She is also a member of the Junior League of Jacksonville, where she had the honor of serving as president. Other honors include being a graduate of Leadership Jacksonville and Leadership Florida–CONNECT. Karen’s passion is organizing and connecting people, places, and concepts.

She currently sits on the advisory board of directors for the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, serving as vice chair of the Gardens & Art Committee, and is also serving as the editor of the Art & Antiques Magazine for the Women’s Board, serving Wolfson Children’s Hospital.