The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce announces that by a unanimous vote, Mrs. Karen Tolar has been selected as its new Director.

A lifelong resident of the area, Mrs. Tolar has dedicated her career and life to serving others. With a background as an ER nurse in both Jonesboro and Ruston, she eventually transitioned her expertise to the business world, co-founding three successful local ventures alongside her husband, Rusty, including their current business, RKT Investments.

Beyond her professional work, she is a fierce advocate for cancer research. A five-time survivor of a rare ovarian cancer, she has testified before congressional panels in Washington, D.C., and spoken to state legislators in Baton Rouge to secure vital research funding.

Her leadership has earned her a Senatorial Level Award and the Woodmen of the World Community Leader Award. A long-standing member of the Chamber of Commerce and McDonald Baptist Church, she is most proud of her family—including her two sons, seven grandchildren, and a great-grandson on the way.