Karen Peitzmeier

Karen Peitzmeier joined the Peace Corps Coverdell Fellows team in June of 2005 as Internal Coordinator and the Illinois Cooperative Development Center in 2016. She has an MA in Leisure Studies from Oklahoma State University and a BS in Recreation and Park Administration from Western Illinois University.

As the Internal Coordinator, her responsibilities include recruitment of prospective Fellows, placement of on campus and local graduate assistantships, training development and coordination. Karen also assists with internship supervision and community recruitment.
Karen joined the Illinois Cooperative Development Center as a Cooperative Development Specialist in 2016. She specializes in developing leadership skills within groups and assists with board formation, membership organization and facilitating group dynamics.

Karen served as the Program Coordinator for Horn Field Campus of WIU for nine years and has training in wilderness and environmental education, therapeutic recreation and small group dynamics. She has served as an environmental education consultant to the Partners of America Illinois-Sao Paulo Brazil chapter. She has a passion for rock climbing, kayaking and delights in visiting new and interesting places.