From Typewriters to Touchscreens: Karen Fulton Celebrates 50 Years of Service

When Karen Fulton joined the University of Nebraska in 1976, "wireless" meant someone forgot to plug something in. After starting in the Registration and Records Office at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, she joined the UNO School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (SCCJ) in 1978, where she has spent the past 48 years of her 50-year University of Nebraska career.

There were no computers. No internet. No email. And registering for classes? That required students to physically stand in a line that stretched from the Administration Building all the way to the fountain outside the Nebraska Union.

Her office toolkit looked a little different, too: a typewriter, white-out, a mimeograph machine, and an adding machine. Later came a “memory typewriter” with built-in correction tape, a major technological breakthrough in Karen’s book, followed eventually by an Apple II computer with floppy disks.

“Imagine if you can, no computers and no internet!” Fulton said with a laugh.

Fifty years later, Karen is still with the SCCJ now serving as Director of Advising and she has become something of a campus legend along the way.

“She has been the heart and soul, the unwavering foundation of the department on the Lincoln campus for decades,” said Dr. Chris Eskridge, who has worked alongside Karen for nearly 50 years. “I cannot imagine the department without her.”

Karen’s journey began while she was still an undergraduate student working in the criminal justice program. What started as a student job turned into a five-decade career built around one thing: helping students succeed.

Over the years, she has held just about every role imaginable including clerk typist, secretary, administrative coordinator, internship coordinator, assistant director, adviser, mentor, problem solver, unofficial historian, and, according to coworkers, the person who always knows the answer.

“She is the go-to person when questions come up,” said Trisha Rhodes, Ph.D., former undergraduate program coordinator for SCCJ. “Karen leads with grace, wisdom, and a genuine commitment to students.”

Karen has advised students since 1987, helping thousands navigate college life one class schedule, career conversation, and graduation application at a time. At this point, she’s even advised the children of former students.

Her impact stretches far beyond campus. Former advisees now work in criminal justice agencies across the country, serve in leadership positions, and yes, a few have even gone on to play in the NFL.

“She’s guided generation after generation of students with patience and compassion,” said Interim Director Todd Armstrong, Ph.D. “Her impact will be felt for decades to come.”

Karen’s dedication to education wasn’t limited to the students she advised. While working full time, she also earned both her bachelor’s degree and MBA from the university.

Of course, balancing work, school, and family life was not always easy.

“There just wasn’t enough time in the day once my children came along,” she said. “But I don’t regret balancing family life with my career.”

Those who work with Karen say her calm demeanor, attention to detail, and ability to adapt through decades of change are what make her exceptional.

“I am the adviser I am today because of Karen’s influence,” said Amber Christianson, whom Karen has mentored for the past six years. “Her compassion for students and unwavering support for colleagues make her truly special.”

Karen has received numerous awards throughout her career, including the UNL Floyd S. Oldt Award for Exceptional Service to the University and the Student Foundation/Builders Award for Outstanding Advising. But ask her what stands out most from the past 50 years, and the answer comes quickly: the people.

“It’s hard to narrow down specific moments,” she said. “But having the opportunity to work with so many wonderful staff, faculty, administrators, and thousands of fabulous students has been very memorable.”

After half a century, Karen has witnessed enormous changes in technology, higher education, and campus life. But through it all, her perspective has stayed remarkably steady.

“Hard work, perseverance, adaptability, integrity, and continuous learning are keys to success,” she said. “But don’t forget to enjoy yourself along the way.”

And if anyone has earned the right to give advice after 50 years in the NU system, it’s probably the woman who remembers when “saving your work” meant not spilling coffee on the typewriter.

As she reflects on her career, Karen's message is simple: “Time flies, and every day is a blessing, so find something to be thankful for and enjoy each day.”