Karen Y. Edwards (White), BSN, RN, MBA, CNOR, is a high-performing, strategic-thinking professional with more than 14 years’ experience in the management of Perioperative Services. She earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of South Florida, Tampa, and a M.B.A. in health care management from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, Texas. Currently, she is the Nursing Director for Main 3 and Dunn 6 Perioperative Services at Houston Methodist Hospital. She is a past member of the AORN Board of Directors, and a member of the Texas Collaboration of Perioperative Registered Nurses (TCORN). In the past, she has served on the board of competency and credentialing institute (CCI), as board member, Vice President, and President (2012-2014).

Karen has received several awards recognizing her excellence in nursing mentorship, teaching, and leadership. During her presidency for AORN Greater Houston chapter, she implemented the DEI committee, and the Barba Edwards scholarship, for a nurses pursuing a master's degree in nursing, with an emphasis in recognition of supporting diversity. Additionally, at Houston Methodist hospital she facilitated three virtual DEI 50-minute sessions for the system, while also making notable contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the healthcare community.