Employee Spotlight: Mary Karam

Mary Karam | Sr. Human Resource Specialist | Joined Penumbra in 2021

Q. What is your current role at Penumbra?

As a Senior Human Resource Specialist, I support employees and leaders with leave of absence and workplace accommodation needs. My role focuses on guiding individuals through leave and accommodation processes, including Family and Medical Leave Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and other applicable state and company programs, in a way that is clear, supportive, and compliant.

Q. What is your personal philosophy

Life is shaped by how we treat others in moments of misunderstanding, hurt, or difference, and it is important to choose to respond with empathy rather than judgment.

I’m a believer that everyone is going through something that we know nothing about. In a world that may be dark, we need to be the light. It is important to lead with kindness, forgiveness, grace and compassion, not only with others, but also with ourselves as individuals.

Q. What aspects of your job do you enjoy most?

I believe working with employees on leaves and accommodations goes beyond the paperwork and transactional side of it. I find it fulfilling being able to support employees during meaningful life moments and times of change. I have the opportunity to guide them through the leave process while also building trusting, interpersonal connections along the way.

Taking the time to listen and offer reassurance helps employees feel heard, comfortable, and supported. Knowing that I can help create a sense of ease during what can be an uncertain or overwhelming time is what makes this work most enjoyable and rewarding to me.

Q. If you did not pursue your current career, what do you see yourself doing professionally?

If I hadn’t worked in HR, I would have loved to pursue being a professional baker. Baking has always been something I enjoy and turn to as a therapeutic outlet. I find it rewarding being able to create something from scratch and knowing it can bring happiness or comfort to others. I’ve recently gotten back into baking more cookies religiously and passing them out to friends and families as a little pick me up. Sweet treats make life so much better!

Q. Describe yourself at age 10. What career aspirations did you have at that age?

At the age of 10, I dreamt of being a fourth-grade teacher. That aspiration was ignited by my fourth-grade teacher who was simply the kindest and most patient educational leader in my entire school career. She was a great example of how students require extra patience and care. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to get creative and have fun with your students while learning. I believe working with and teaching students comes with an impactful and fulfilling role.
I may not have chosen to become an educational teacher, but I have had the opportunity to work with youth for the last 10+ years at my church which I believe is just as rewarding.

Q. What would people be surprised to learn about you?

People are often surprised to learn that I trained in Tae Kwon Do for five years as a kid, reaching the red/black belt, just one step below black. I started out wanting to learn self-defense, but it quickly became an outlet for me—a way to focus, challenge myself, and grow. In recent years, I’ve briefly picked up boxing again at my gym, not competitively, but as a hobby and a way to stay grounded and release stress. Martial arts and boxing have been less about fighting for me and more about balance, resilience, and personal growth.