Karen M. DeHart, Associate Commissioner, is responsible for directing, administering, and coordinating business development, marketing, merchandising & licensing, and endowed fund efforts for the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. She also serves as the human resource liaison.
Karen earned both her Bachelor’s degree in physical education (1990) and her Master’s degree in exercise and sports science (1995) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She served as a graduate assistant teaching undergraduate physical education classes and as a Chapel Hill High School Assistant Track Coach while completing her Master’s degree. Karen has also worked in the corporate fitness sector, taught K – 5 health and physical education, and coached JV and varsity girls’ high school volleyball and basketball.
The daughter of a retired USAF CMSGT, Karen resided throughout the United States and overseas before making North Carolina her home in 1983. During her high school athletic career, Karen lettered in several sports, including field hockey, cross-country, softball, basketball, and track. Karen graduated from Eastern Wayne High School in Goldsboro, NC, in 1986.
Serving the NCHSAA since July 1994, Karen has actively participated at the national level through numerous presentations related to investments, corporate partnerships, ticketing, and marketing at the National Federation of State High School Association meetings.
Karen and her husband, Jon, reside in Chapel Hill and have three children. Karen enjoys reading, walking, cooking, and volunteering with local groups.
Staff Responsibilities
Administration/Finance
- Corporate Partnerships
- Marketing & Branding
- Endowment Funds
- Liaison with merchandising vendor
- Contracts
- Human Resources
- General eligibility information
