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Lobo Club Donor of the Game - Karen and JR Willis

Lobo Club Donor of the Game – Karen and JR Willis

Karen grew up in New Mexico and is an alum of UNM. She grew up watching the Lobos with her father. JR became a fan of the Lobos through his love for Karen. Together, the retired couple supports UNM student-athletes through the Lobo Club.

How did you first get involved with the Lobo Club?
“We were recruited through the Lobo Club Ambassador Program over 20 years ago and were sold immediately on the merits of donating to the Lobo Club.”

Tell us about yourself and your family.
“Karen was born & reared in Albuquerque, New Mexico. JR is from Louisiana. We met and married in Farmington, N.M. close to 40 years ago and after traveling to various parts of the US, decided to make ABQ our home.”

What do you love about New Mexico?
“Because of our fondness for the great outdoors, we love all things New Mexico. We especially love the mountains, the weather, the beautiful sunsets and, least we forget, red and green chile.”

Why do you choose to support the Lobo Club?
“We support the Lobo Club to assist the student-athletes. Scholarships do not cover all of the expenses for these athletes. Donations to the Lobo Club help offset some of these costs and allow these young men and women to focus on their education and chosen sport.”

What motivates you to give to the Lobo Club?
“Just knowing that we are helping these student-athletes in achieving their goals. We always feel like proud parents whenever the GPA results are released and UNM student-athletes are at the top of the list.”

What makes UNM athletics so special to you?
“Karen grew up in NM and is an alum of UNM. She grew up watching the Lobos with her father. JR became a fan of the Lobos through his love for Karen.”

Anything else you’d like to add about the Lobos or yourselves?
“Both Karen and JR are retired. Karen from a career in Human Resources and JR from the US Postal Service and the US Marine Corp where he served during the Vietnam War.”