The Karen Marquez Honor is presented annually to a female security professional who has consistently worked for the betterment of the security industry over an extended period (minimum 15 years experience or equivalent (law enforcement/military) or 10 years experience or equivalent (law enforcement/military) with an ASIS Certification).

The candidate must be a member of ASIS International in good standing (or Life Member) at the time of the award. The nomination must identify contributions the individual has made to the Physical Security Industry. The candidate must attend the ASIS Annual Seminar to be considered. This is noted in the nomination form as well.

April Special: Professional Security Officer Program (PSOP) w/Individual Membership Package

Mrs. Karen Marquez was the Co-owner and Executive Vice President of MVM, Inc. a physical security services firm based in Virginia. Karen passed away in 2006 after a long battle with Cancer. During her 23-year career in security, Karen developed and implemented core administration and support functions at MVM, including finance, billing, recruiting, and human resources processes. A member of the National Association of Women Business Owners, the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce, and the National Association of Female Executives, Mrs. Marquez brought her hands-on expertise to global management issues.

In 2006, in memory of MVM's co-founder Karen Marquez, MVM established the Karen Marquez Institute for the purpose of helping Hispanic students obtain a college education. In 2010 the Karen Marquez Institute was transformed into the Marquez Foundation, a not for profit organization to honor Karen Marquez and the causes she had a great deal of passion for.

Find out how YOU can become a Certified Protection Officer with the IFPO!

“During her 25-year career as a business executive, Karen always appreciated the value a college education could give to employees in the business world," said Dario Marquez, husband of the late Karen Marquez. "Today, Karen's dream is being realized through this Institute which bears her name, and as a family, we are proud to support her memory."

Top Hispanic College Fund scholars from across the country are flown to Washington, D.C., for a series of workshops on interviewing, networking, and mentorship. The program culminates in the annual Hispanic College Fund Scholarship Awards Gala, at which the students are honored for their achievements in front of upwards of 500 attendees.

Membership has its privileges! JOIN the IFPO and see the benefits!

"Karen Marquez's exceptional business savvy will put a human face on professional success," said Idalia Fernandez, president of the Hispanic College Fund. "Students will undoubtedly feel inspired by the ability Ms. Marquez had to elegantly succeed in the fast-paced world of corporate America."

Foundation information can be found here.