Karen Partanen

Karen joined the WSYMCA team in November 2022 as the Senior Director of Association Programming. She is responsible for the oversight and management of Aquatics, Sports & Childcare at both the Church Street and Wells Ave locations, as well as the oversight of Newton Corner Place at Church Street. Karen comes with a diversified background in aquatics, sports, and childcare from directing municipal recreation departments in South Florida, the North Shore, and the MetroWest. Her work within local municipalities provides her with extensive experience partnering with local nonprofits throughout various types of communities. Karen’s work has won her an award from Aquatics International as Best Family Aquatic Center, she has opened a teen center from the ground up, organized regional sports tournaments, and looking forward to providing innovative programming ideas to the WSYMCA. Karen has a strong commitment to DE&I and has worked locally with GLAD, Resolve New England, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, the Government Alliance on Race & Equity, and the Service Club of Andover.