In Memoriam - Karen Mason, Executive Director, Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children

Karen Mason graced this organization with her presence as Executive Director from (2001-2010). She was a brilliant visionary, a compassionate leader, a mentor to many, and a tireless champion for all Idaho's young children. We miss her very much. Although her body is no longer with us, Karen's light still shines the way for Idaho AEYC and its mission to advocate for our youngest citizens. Her impact on Early Care and Education will live on forever!

Let's celebrate this life! Karen was the daughter of Richard and Aris Boyle of Idaho Falls, both thriving. She leaves two brothers to the future, Gordon Boyle (wife Roxanne and daughter Jessica), and Bruce Boyle (wife Joni, daughter Brook Havens and son Jess Boyle).

Karen was fortunate to grow up in the best possible environment for a young child. She explored, played, enjoyed a neighborhood full of children of all ages to run and play, create games, play baseball with dads and moms, go camping, swim, ride horses, and ski from an early age. Extended family and adults helped mold a person who was adventurous, risk taking and cared about people. The early years really do make a difference in terms of what we are able to do as we negotiate the ups and downs of school and life.

Karen and Elmo celebrate at Week of the Young Child event in Boise, April 2007.

A cherished husband/partner, Mark Mason (son of Bud and Ruth Mason, brother, Mike Mason) and amazing son, Thomas (fiancé, Christine); a generous family; and many gifted friends and colleagues are left to carry on. They are the inspiration and foundation for all the accomplishments, great fun and adventures along the way that made life precious.

Difficult times and loss also added to the fabric of who Karen became, perhaps helping to define the importance of collaboration, relationship building and the value that families come first.

So, join us in celebrating the great times, a life full of energy and passion, and work unfinished. In lieu of flowers please consider supporting the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (Idaho AEYC) to provide scholarship and professional development that increases the quality of child care in Idaho. Watch Karen's thank you video at the 2009 Business Summit for Early Learning.


Idaho AEYC is presented with the 2009 Alfred P. Sloan Award for business excellence in workplace flexibility.	Karen celebrates her 7th anniversary with Idaho AEYC and is given a carved wooden giraffe.	May 2009, Karen is awarded the Commissioners Award by the National Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, recognizing her work in Strengthening Families Through Early Care and Education.

Karen Mason's work on behalf of
children to be honored Read more
~ Diane Ronayne, Idaho Stateman