Karen McDonnell has been appointed assistant vice president and chief human resources officer for Kennesaw State University, effective today.

According to the press release from KSU:

McDonnell will oversee all aspects of human resources strategy and administration for the more than 7,000 Kennesaw State faculty members, staff and student workers. She will be responsible for HR units handling hiring, compensation, benefits, policies and procedures, and employee information, training and data services. McDonnell will report to Julie Peterson, the University’s chief business officer.

Peterson said, “Karen McDonnell’s strong track record of leadership in HR functions and ability to design and implement strategic objectives makes her a great fit for this role.  Karen will help guide Kennesaw State in continuing to attract, develop and retain a talented and diverse faculty and staff to support the University’s growth and evolving needs.”

“I am very excited about the opportunity to join the staff at Kennesaw State University,” McDonnell said. “KSU has an excellent reputation, and I look forward to being proactive in carrying out the University’s vision and goals.”

McDonnell earned a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Stonehill College, and according to the press release, is working on her master’s degree.

The resume on McDonnell’s LinkedIn page lists a number of positions in human resources, beginning in 1990.  Her most recent role was  Senior Vice President for Human Resources at PruittHealth. She also previously worked at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Piedmont Healthcare.