Karen Carter Richards currently serves as the CEO and Publisher of the Houston Forward Times, the largest Black-owned independently published newspaper in the South. She is continuing the legacy of her parents who spearheaded the renowned publication.
Her father, Julius P. Carter, founded the Houston Forward Times in January 1960 with the aim of creating a means to overcome obstacles and unite Blacks through communicating their needs to one another. It became the third major newspaper in Houston, considering it was a weekly publication only behind two dailies.
When her father died, her mother, Lenora "Doll" Carter took over. Richards has since been working alongside her mother for over three decades.
"She always included us, and so I've tried to be the same way with my children," Karen told ABC13.
Her oldest daughter, Chelsea is the general manager, and her youngest, Nykayla works as the social media editor. She had learned to balance work and family especially when they were younger.
"I had a swing over there, and a playpen over there, but you still had to work, keep them quiet while I was on a conference call," Karen said.
She initially thought she'd like to be in the medical field, but journalism and publishing must have really run in her blood.
Today, through Karen's leadership, the Houston Forward Times has turned their weekly paper into a daily, expanded its mission, and continued providing the most trusted voice for African Americans in the city. She says her having her daughters help in the company is really significant.
"My father's vision has become my vision, but I see it big and bright," Karen said.
For more information about the Houston Forward Times, visit www.forwardtimes.com