There are a lot of mom’s in Polk County, but one local woman has dedicated years of her life to be a mom for everyone in her various roles in organizations.

The Board of Education’s meeting this past Tuesday saw some time taken out for one of Polk County’s greatest contributors honoring years of service toward ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to move forward in life.

Superintendent Dr. Katie Thomas talked about how much of an impact this particular honoree had made throughout the years they’d worked together in various community efforts, especially on the Board for the Polk County College and Career Academy. It was a very personal

Karen Nissen was called up to receive an clock and the thanks for her longtime service to Polk School District on the PCCCA Board and in other efforts. Nissen was involved in the process of bringing about a College and Career Academy even before the formal board was created.

Her service on the board has stretched for the past 10 years in one capacity or another. Thomas said that she wanted Nissen to be recognized for her servant leadership and publicly acknowledge “her work, and the gratitude for the impact that she’s had not just on the College and Career Academy, but the staff, and I know me personally.”

“Her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of countless students and faculty members, and our community as a whole,” Thomas said. “Your leadership Karen has been instrumental in shaping the vision and direction of our school. Your commitment to excellence is set a standard that we all strive to meet.”

“Your passion for education and unwavering belief in the potential of every student has inspired us to work harder and dream bigger,” Thomas continued. “Your contributions to our school have been immeasurable, and we’re all better for having the privilege of working alongside you. Your legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students and educators and we’ll be grateful for the impact you’ve made in the community.”

Thomas added before presenting the clock that “we always joke that ‘I want to be you when I grow up.’ And I know if I can be anything like you, I’ll know I’ve succeeded.”

Nissen was given a standing ovation during the presentation.

Nissen’s time on the PCCCA board is just the tip of the iceberg for her longtime career in helping the community. A former real estate attorney, Nissen has since retirement been involved in a number of projects.

She started with the help of others the Our House Domestic Violence Shelter and remains involved as President of the Advisory Board for the organization, currently serves as Vice Chair for the board of the Development Authority of Polk County, and serves on the CASA board as well.

She additionally was involved with the Boys and Girls Club for 15 years, served as Chair for the Polk County Chamber of Commerce Board, and additionally helped with service on the Tallatoona board as well.

Her time in all of these efforts continues to bring forth new beginnings in a variety of areas of Polk County life, from economic development and industrial projects to ensuring that families who are escaping from violence have a place to stay.

That makes her a Mom of Polk County on Mother’s Day this year, thanks to her role as advocate for people in all walks of life.

If everyone could just be like Karen Nissen, maybe the world would be a better place.