The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Karen Wells Memorial Library at Midland High School Monday night.
The library, located at Midland High School in Pleasant Plains, was dedicated to the memory of Karen Wells, a career-long educator in the Floral and Midland School Districts. She served as a librarian and taught English and journalism, a release from the chamber said. A beloved educator, Wells was recognized as a “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” and sponsored the Midland Mustang Annual.
“Karen was always talking about students and how we could best serve them,” said Midland School District Superintendent Dr. Bruce Bryant. “I think that is a tribute to her legacy as a person and as an educator.”
“Mrs. Wells was compassionate, professional, dedicated, and caring,” said former student and Midland School District Board Member Shawn Conder. “She was a great teacher and friend.”
Several members of the Wells family were present for the dedication including her husband Steve Wells, their children, and grandchildren.
“This is just wonderful,” said Steve Wells, speaking on behalf of the Wells family. “Forty-four years ago, Karen began teaching in Floral and quickly fell in love with the community and her students. Midland will always be a special place to our family.”
“Mrs. Wells represents everything we should all aspire to be,” said Midland Elementary Principal Bani Meharg. “She was kind and helpful to every person she came into contact with. We are all the better for having known her. No person has left a more significant impact at Midland than Karen Wells.”
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting followed by a cookie and punch reception in the library where all 38 of the yearbooks Wells advised were on display.
“Mrs. Wells was a part of helping so many people be their very best. We hope that this space continues to be more than a gateway for learning. We hope the Karen Wells Memorial Library can be a space where everyone can do their very best,” said BAAC Chief Operating Officer Jamie Rayford.
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