Karen Jane Sweetland

Karen Jane Sweetland, 74, passed away unexpectedly at her home April 13, 2018. Born in Oxnard to a large extended family, Karen moved to the bay area and graduated from SJ State with a Bachelor degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Social Science. While at SJ State in 1971 she was one of the initiators of the graduate program in Women’s Studies. A passionate advocate for equal rights, Karen worked toward institutional change as affirmative action coordinator at UC Santa Cruz and then for 18 years at Valley Medical center in San Jose. In retirement Karen continued her advocacy but in a more direct and personal way, helping people achieve their potential. She taught for the Landmark Forum, leading courses in self-expression and leadership for over 20 years.

Karen developed a wide and diverse group of friends. Her passion carried over to a variety of pursuits including travel, interior design, knitting, crafts and most especially cooking. She seemed happiest when creating and sharing a meal with friends and family with a smile and many laughs along the way. Karen is preceded in death by her parents Marion and Jerry and brothers Mark and Nick. She is survived by sister Meredith, brother Jack, and multiple cousins, nieces and nephews.

Karen left a legacy for the causes that she supported during her lifetime, including The Hunger Project. She will truly live on in the hearts and minds of people that she made a difference for in her lifetime and those that her legacy will touch long after she is gone.