Entrepreneur and USask alumna Karen Stewart joins Board of Governors

As one of the government‑appointed members responsible for helping guide USask’s long‑term financial and administrative direction, Stewart joins a group that plays a crucial role in stewarding the university’s resources and strategic priorities.

A seasoned business leader, self-proclaimed “serial entrepreneur” and USask alumna, Stewart brings decades of experience in building and scaling companies across finance and other sectors, as well as a strong record of innovation and advocacy for women in business. Her career spans more than 30 years across financial services, mediation, and venture capital.

Among her many accomplishments, Stewart founded Fairway Divorce Solutions, Canada’s first national alternative to traditional divorce litigation. Her work has helped thousands of families navigate separation with greater clarity, dignity, and financial understanding. Before Fairway, Stewart founded Milestone Asset Management and led teams managing over $250 million in financial assets, earning repeated national top-producer recognition. Karen also founded Bumble Bees Venture Capital, championing female investors on mission-driven ventures by expanding access to early-stage capital.

For Stewart, the appointment to the USask Board of Governors reflects more than a governance role – it’s a homecoming.

“I’ve spent my whole life educating and re‑educating myself,” she said. “I’m a real learner in life.”

A proud USask alumna, Stewart earned both a Bachelor of Science in Consumer Studies and Chemistry in 1986 and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing in 1988 from the university. She has been a long-standing member of the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Edwards School of Business.

“I spent most of the 1980s at the University of Saskatchewan, and my connection only grew from there,” Stewart said. “I built a Canadian franchise system, and one of my franchises was in Saskatchewan, so I was back in Saskatoon often.”

“I was approached about 12 years ago to join the Edwards Dean’s Advisory Council, and that brought me back many times. My two daughters eventually chose the U of S — one even met her husband here — and they both loved the city and the campus.”

When she was presented with the opportunity to join the Board of Governors, Stewart knew it was a meaningful way to give back.

“Universities are at a pivotal moment. I think I can bring value by helping people see the opportunities rather than getting bogged down in the challenges,” she said. “I see this as a chance to give back and help the university thrive in a time of change.”

Stewart notes that universities today must be more aligned with the marketplace than ever before, something she hopes to help guide during her time on the board.

“Thriving in a world re‑shaped by artificial intelligence should be a key performance indicator for every university,” she said. “Success will come down to financial health, enrolment, attracting top talent, and producing the research and innovation the world needs.”