Contains files pertaining to Karen Kennedy's time as first a student, and later a professor at California State University, Sacramento. A majority of the collection focuses on the subjects she taught in women's studies. Files include personal notebooks, course syllabi, publications, and audio recordings.

Karen Ann Kennedy (1945-2006) lived a life devoted to activism. She was a fifth generation Californian, tracing her roots to the Gold Rush country and Sacramento. She lived predominantly in Sacramento, excluding 8 years she lived in Los Angeles at the height of post-WWII sprawl. She moved around the Sacramento area frequently due to her parents' job in flipping houses. She attended California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) in the 1960s and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, with minors in Art and Art History. During her time as a student, she dedicated herself to activism and advocacy. She participated in the protests during the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War and was strictly against racism on campus and in the community. She was also heavily involved in the feminist and women's liberation movement. Following her graduation, she worked at CSUS for five years, 1970-1975, as a professor in the Women's Studies program. She taught courses about women and the arts and music, and women and healthcare. After working at CSUS she worked for the state of California for 20 years, while also working with community-based organizations and participating in what she called "Neighborhood Activism." She was vocal about proposed work plans and bills that affected residential areas in Sacramento. She eventually retired and opened an antique shop in Sacramento. She died in 2006.

8.75 Linear Feet (7 record cartons)

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