Karyn Piña, 58, passed away on October 8, 2020. Karyn earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at ASU. Her early career included stints at the Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund and the Tomás Rivera Center. At the NALEO Educational Fund she perfected her skills over the subsequent 25 years rising to the position of Chief Strategy Officer. Her leadership of the organization's fund development and special events functions earned NALEO a reputation for exquisite taste, attention to detail and efficiency. She mentored and nurtured scores of young Latinas and Latinos and was a role model for many more across the country.



She departed from NALEO on two occasions to work for ASU, most recently serving as an ASU Associate Vice President for Community Outreach and Engagement where she built a number of strategic initiatives and community partnerships advancing educational opportunities for all Arizona students.



Karyn was preceded in death by her father. She is survived by her husband, Ronnie, two sons, her mother and a brother. A private memorial service will be scheduled in October. In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to the NALEO Educational Fund . (Source: Arizona Republic)