The cheer world has lost an icon. Karen Lawrence, a key figure in modern cheerleading whose career helped shape the competitive landscape of the sport, died on January 29, 2025, in North Dallas. She was 74. The cause was complications from Alzheimer’s and dementia, her family said.
Lawrence began her career in cheerleading in 1967 as a camp instructor for the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA), working under its founder, Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer, widely recognized as the creator of modern cheerleading. She spent three summers in that role before moving on to other professional pursuits.
In her 40s, she returned to NCA, where she ascended to senior leadership roles, including Arkansas Director, National and All Stars Judge, and ultimately, Senior Vice President of Marketing for NCA and NDA. In these positions, she played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s message while ensuring the continuation of Herkimer’s legacy.
Beyond NCA, Lawrence became a founding member of the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) Board of Directors and served on multiple industry committees, including the USASF National Advisory Board, the Cheerleading Worlds Advisory Board, and the USASF College Scholarship Committee. Recognized as the face of NCA, she was a mentor to teams and coaches across the country. She also played a key role in establishing NCA’s long-standing partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
