Glenn and Kathy Johnson established the Karen Johnson Doke Memorial Scholarship in loving memory of their daughter Karen—a proud Coug Nurse who passed away nearly 30 years ago. Many know Glenn as “the voice of the Cougs,” and both he and Kathy spent years as dedicated WSU faculty members. Glenn often says he has “been made of crimson for 46 years.”
At home, their passion runs even deeper. Glenn and Kathy are unwavering advocates for nurses and are committed to helping address the national nursing shortage. Both credit a nurse practitioner with saving their lives, and they believe wholeheartedly that nursing is one of the most essential and impactful professions in healthcare.
Established in 1997, the Karen Johnson Doke Memorial Endowed Scholarship has already supported more than 35 aspiring Coug Nurses, helping them pursue their dreams and carry forward the compassion and excellence that defined Karen’s life.
“Receiving the Karen Johnson Doke Memorial Scholarship during nursing school meant so much to me. Nursing school is demanding, and the support eased financial pressure so I could focus on learning and growing into the kind of nurse I hoped to be. Being chosen felt encouraging and affirming during a challenging season. "
"Learning more about Karen’s story makes this scholarship even more meaningful. Knowing her nursing career was just beginning makes it especially powerful to be connected to her legacy and to carry forward her commitment to caring for others. ”
— Kiri Arndt, Nursing '20
With your generosity, you can help carry forward Karen’s legacy by empowering the next generation of nurses who will change lives, strengthen communities, and care for all of us when we need it most.
Support the Karen Johnson Doke Memorial Scholarship today
