Before coming to Samford, Karen Ryan worked in the telecommunications industry for South Central Bell, BellSouth and AT&T.  After leaving the telecommunications industry, Ryan came to work for the Department of Communication and Media at Samford in August of 2014.

Ryan is active in her home church singing in the choir, teaching Sunday school, planning trips for the women of her church, and is the financial secretary.  She also volunteers with the National Veterans Day Foundation. 

Ryan enjoys reading, traveling, cooking, and hosting friends and family in her home.  She lives in Trussville with her husband, Mark and her two dogs, Elliemae and Jethro.