Karen R. Johnson brings special talents to the job of President of United Ways of Texas. With more than 35 years of executive and management experience, Johnson is leading United Ways of Texas to the bright future she thinks Texas deserves. She brings a wealth of experience in law, government and private industry that define her leadership. An attorney and the holder of the distinguished law graduate award of St. Mary's University School of Law Alumni Association, she has been recognized for her management and leadership skills in several important fields; including her position as executive director of the State Bar of Texas where she was the first woman in this job. In her role as a special assistant in the Texas Governor's office and as assistant comptroller for legal services in the State Comptroller's office - she gained unique insight into Texas public policy. As president of Entergy Texas, Johnson had the opportunity to know first-hand how entrepreneurial activities impact business and industry as well our state and our communities. As a private attorney, Johnson has represented clients before state agencies, the legislature and the executive branch on a wide range of issues including business, health and taxation issues. She is also a former Texas assistant attorney general and has worked in the Texas Legislature. Her achievements have been many and her awards for outstanding performance are recognized in Austin and throughout Texas. Johnson is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and St. Mary's University School of Law.