Entrepreneurship runs in Karen Alston’s blood. After serving in the U.S. Army, Alston’s grandfather returned stateside and settled in 1950s Philadelphia, where he built a successful business as one of the only African-American entrepreneurs in a heavily white area. Alston spent most of her childhood in West Philadelphia and Delaware County where her grandparents lived. She watched her grandfather run his business on weekends and during her summer breaks. “He was powerful, a leader and I didn’t realize it at the time but he had a work ethic that taught me to work hard and enjoy life as well,” Alston told Opportunity Lives. “My mom, brother, and many other family members are entrepreneurs. I have watched them have good and bad years and learned many lessons from my family members who run businesses.” Photo: Karen Alston When it came time for college she preferred New York University but didn’t get accepted; her mother recommended Howard University, a well-known member of the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) community. “I really did not know much about African-American culture or history at this time,” Alston said. “I am thankful I made the decision to attend Howard University as it prepared me and…
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