Who is Carolyn Krause? Oak Ridge’s Tireless Volunteer Journalist

Carolyn Krause may be the most active byline in The Oak Ridger—and yet, she’s a volunteer. She writes, photographs, edits, promotes events, and supports nearly every local organization with her skills and heart.

Krause is not only a talented science writer but also a committed community member. She covers a wide range of events in Oak Ridge, including science talks, social justice programs, storytelling festivals, and more.

A Life of Service Through Writing

Carolyn Hay Krause was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from the College of Wooster and then a master’s degree in teaching from the University of Pittsburgh. After teaching for a time, she followed her passion and earned a second master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School.

Her writing career began with The Pittsburgh Press but grew stronger after she moved to Oak Ridge in 1970 with her husband, Herbert Krause, a chemist who joined Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Carolyn soon joined The Oak Ridger as a science reporter.

By 1975, she moved to the award-winning ORNL Review, where she eventually became editor for 25 years. She retired in 2011, but her commitment to writing never stopped.

A Heart for Oak Ridge

Since retiring, Krause has been giving back to Oak Ridge in countless ways. She writes stories on research from ORNL, promotes cultural events, and volunteers with the League of Women Voters, Friends of ORNL, and Oak Ridge Institute for Continued Learning (ORICL)—serving on the boards of all three.

She also supports the Oak Ridge Civic Music Association, publicizing events like the Rock to Bach Music Festival.

Recognized for Her Service

In June, the Oak Ridge Breakfast Rotary Club honored Krause with its Service Above Self Award. She chose to direct the $500 donation from the award to ORICL, one of the groups she supports most passionately.

Krause continues to report on important issues, such as racial history, nuclear energy projects, and education. She’s written about the Scarboro 85, helped promote Flatwater Tales, and consistently covers diversity-centered programs like Our American Roots.

Personal Life and Legacy

Krause and her husband Herb raised two children—Steve and Diane—both Davidson College graduates. Diane works in health education with Oak Ridge Associated Universities, while Steve lives in Los Angeles with his family.

Carolyn and Herb recently donated $50,000 to the Roane State Foundation to support students in health science fields. The couple has also traveled to over 30 countries and continues to stay active in Oak Ridge life.

Still Driven by Curiosity and Community

Even in retirement, Krause continues to write because she cares about keeping Oak Ridge informed.

“It’s a useful service for speakers and readers,” she says. “And it keeps my mind active. That’s what drives me.”