W4FSU and FSU Community Mourns Dean Karen Laughlin

In May, Florida State University mourned the loss of Dean of Undergraduate Studies Karen Laughlin. Laughlin was described as an influential, tireless and dedicated educator who, for almost four decades, helped define the very nature of an undergraduate education earned by countless FSU students.

Laughlin, a member of W4FSU, spent her entire professional career at Florida State, holding appointments both in English and humanities.

She led the Division of Undergraduate Studies for 17 years, working to help students develop a sound academic foundation during their initial two years at FSU before they entered their major field of study. She also served as chair on several Faculty Senate committees—including both the undergraduate and graduate policy committees—and as Faculty Senate President from 2000–2002.

“I was so sorry to hear of Dr. Laughlin’s passing,” said FSU President John Thrasher in a university news release. “Karen was committed to ensuring that the university continued to give a high priority to undergraduate education and to helping provide FSU’s undergraduate students with the richest possible educational experience. She will be missed terribly.”

To honor Dean Laughlin, FSU has created ways for you to contribute to her legacy.

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