Karen Lawrence, whose dedication and leadership helped shape the evolution of modern cheerleading, died on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, in North Dallas. She was 74. The cause was complications from Alzheimer’s and dementia, her family said.
Lawrence’s career in cheerleading began in 1967 when she joined the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) as a camp instructor, working directly under Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer, the founder of NCA and widely regarded as the creator of modern cheerleading. She spent three summers instructing young athletes before transitioning into leadership roles within the organization. By 1997, she had risen to the position of Senior Vice President of Marketing for NCA & NDA, where she played a crucial role in shaping the company’s message and expanding its influence in the sport.
Her contributions extended beyond her corporate role. Lawrence was an influential figure in the creation of the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) and served on multiple industry committees, including the USASF National Advisory Board and the Cheerleading Worlds Advisory Board. She was a founding member of the USASF/IASF Board of Directors and served on the USA Cheer Board of Directors.
Lawrence’s tenure at NCA was marked by her commitment to elevating cheerleading’s competitive standards and expanding opportunities for athletes. Working alongside Herkimer, she helped refine the industry’s approach to training, safety regulations, and marketing strategies, ensuring that cheerleading continued to evolve as a highly athletic and structured discipline.
In addition to her corporate and organizational leadership, Lawrence worked closely with teams and coaches across the country, offering guidance and fostering connections within the cheerleading world. She was also instrumental in establishing NCA and Varsity’s longstanding partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, reinforcing her commitment to using cheerleading as a vehicle for giving back.
Her contributions did not go unrecognized. She was a recipient of the NCA/CDT President’s Award and served as a championship judge at national and international competitions. A frequent conference speaker, she remained a respected voice in the community throughout her career.
Lawrence’s legacy is woven into the sport’s evolution. Her influence in organizations such as NCA, NDA, Varsity, USASF, and USA Cheer helped redefine cheerleading’s competitive landscape. The programs she helped develop and the athletes she mentored ensure that her impact will be felt for generations.
A memorial service is planned for mid-February in North Dallas, with details forthcoming. Her family and the cheerleading community remember her as a tireless advocate for the sport, a mentor, and an innovator.
