For Karen Brooks, family and career have always been synonymous. Growing up in her family's business, Pfeiffer Incorporated, Karen was inspired by her mother long before she took the step to become an ambassador for the company in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

“My mother was always involved in starting companies the same way. Watching her and my father build it was an education in itself.”

Founder J. Reese Pfeiffer's father and mother were major influences in her life. After the business was founded in 1952, Pfeiffer flourished and Ms. Brooks was encouraged by her father to represent the family business in the community.

Brooks reflected on her origins. She said, “I started working with her father because I wanted to be with her father and learn more about the company.'' Her siblings and children also had these values ​​and followed them. “We all worked there. All of my children are involved with Pfeiffer because all their careers are in manufacturing companies. There's a place for everyone.”

Because of the character played by her father, Brooks was coveted for the role early on. “His father coached with all his heart. He never wavered in his kindness. He cared about everyone around him, which is why his employees wanted to start the company with him. I was there.”

As a caregiver herself, Brooks has held many roles that focused on others. First and foremost is her role as a mother. Her advice to young mothers stems from her beginning attending Pfeiffer while finding balance with her children.

“I was always on the scene with them, always present to pick them up from school. I always knew that if I didn't pick up the information, I wouldn't get that fresh information. Being a mother has been the best job I've ever had. Really, truly, this is the best time of my life.”

In both his professional life and his ministry, Brooks has built a legendary presence that began locally and spread around the world.

As Vice President and Treasurer of Pfeiffer, she remains closely involved with the company that makes the products you probably have in your home. Beyond the corporate world, she donates her time and insight to the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce, United Way of West Alabama, March of Dimes, and other organizations serving the Tuscaloosa community and all of Alabama. I'm giving my strength.

Perhaps most importantly, her service to the University of Alabama System has had the most far-reaching impact. In her capacity as a member of the University of Alabama System Board of Governors, Brooks has tackled difficult issues with grace and leadership.

Through her work on the Board, her commitment to improving Alabama's education, economy and quality of life has had a profoundly positive impact on generations of students, voters and Alabamians.

In addition to her extraordinary impact, nOh, and Brooks' goal as a grandmother is to “carry on my father's legacy.” She wants to set an example for her children. ” The example always goes back to “The key is the heart.” She literally puts her heart into each day as she builds trusting relationships with people. ” she jokes. She “uses the heart emoji thousands of times a day!”

In addition to his family, Brooks had mentors and a support system that made him a leader. “Paul Bryant Jr. has been very dedicated. He called me and asked if I would be willing to serve on the board, which was a great honor. But I started doing both and loved every minute of it.”

Brooks also defended her husband of 53 years as “rock's biggest supporter.”

She also draws inspiration from other women in her family, her sisters. “It still feels like we’re all in this together.”

When reflecting on what makes a great leader, she mentions all three presidents within the University of Alabama System, saying, “All three of them share the same quality of leading with their heart; That inspires me more than anything.”

As for the future, Brooks isn't slowing down. “My focus is to be deeply involved with the entire university system. Fortunately, they still look to me for advice and advice to help guide them.”

Brooks has had a positive impact on generations in his many roles. But for herself, “the most rewarding thing is the people I've met on this journey,” she says. It's Brooks' focus on her relationship fundamentals and her people heart that makes her the Woman of Influence of 2024.