Chaplain (Lieutenant Colonel) Karen J. Diefendorf, VP for Local Chapters

Following the completion of her recall to active duty, January 2014, she served a Tyson Prepared Foods plant as a part-time chaplain while also serving as a chaplain with Hospice Care of South Carolina. She completed her formal pastoral career as Director, Chaplain Services for Tyson Foods, Inc., directing the largest corporate chaplain program in the world, retiring in April 2021.

She continues active ministry by hosting a weekly radio program, “Encounters With God” on Wreaths Across America Radio and serving on five boards, Wreaths Across America, Philippine Mission of the Churches of Christ, US Army Chaplain Corps Regimental Association, Marsh Center for Chaplain Studies, and Tyson Center for Faith and Spirituality at the University of Arkansas.

She holds an undergraduate degree in Christian Education and Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Lincoln (IL) Christian College and Seminary (now Lincoln Christian University) and a Master of Sacred Theology in Christian Ethics from Yale University. Karen completed all residency requirements for the Doctor of Ministry degree from Lexington Theological Seminary. She was honored to receive an honorary Doctor of Theology degree from Seoul Christian University, Seoul, South Korea.

She is married to husband, Walt, for 44 years and they have three adult children and six grandchildren.

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ATTENTION CHAPLAIN CORPS FAMILY MEMBERS

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY AWAITS!

The United States Army Chaplain Corps Regimental Association (USACCRA) is proud to announce its new scholarship program designed to support the educational goals of military families.

Who is eligible?

Any person whose sponsor is a spouse, parent, legal guardian, or grandparent who:

  • Is active-duty military, active reservist in drill status, National Guard, or an honorably discharged veteran.
  • Is/was a Chaplain, Chaplain Assistant/Religious Affairs Specialist, Director of Religious Education, or Department of the Army Civilian serving in a position with the US Army Chaplain Corps.
  • Is a current member or USACCRA existing chapters worldwide.

What are the benefits?

  • Financial assistance to help achieve your educational dreams.
  • Recognition of the contributions made by military families.
  • Support for the unique challenges faced by military families, such as deployments, reintegration, and relocations.
  • Army National Guard
  • Directors of Religious Education
  • Retirees and Veterans

How to apply:

  • Contact us for an information packet.
  • Submit a completed application, including a cover letter, verification of sponsor status, proof of relationship with sponsor, acceptance into an educational program, academic transcript, and two letters of recommendation.

Additional Information:

  • The scholarship is open to all qualified applicants, regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
  • The scholarship can be used for a variety of educational programs, including community college, college, university, military/service academy, or trade school.

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY! INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE TODAY!