When Karen Olenick ’71 graduated from Glassboro State College — now Rowan University — she never imagined her career as an elementary school physical education teacher would one day take her to center field, performing for tens of thousands of baseball fans.
Now known across the country as “Nana Karen,” Karen is one of the beloved members of the Banana Nanas, the all-grandma dance team that performs with the wildly popular Savannah Bananas baseball club. At 76 years young, she’s choreographing routines, teaching dance steps and bringing smiles to crowds that fill Major League Baseball stadiums across the country.
“I started with [Savannah Bananas owner] Jesse Cole eight years ago,” Karen recalls. “He asked me if I thought I could do what he now has me doing. Still here eight years later, still choreographing, still teaching the other Nanas — it’s amazing.”
Magic, Movement & Memories: From Teaching PE to Dancing for 45,000 Fans
Before her baseball fame, Karen spent her career as an elementary school physical education teacher, instilling confidence and movement skills in her students. She says the same mindset carries over to her role as a dancer and choreographer.
“Once a teacher, always a teacher,” she says with a smile. “You have to break down every single skill. In the beginning, I had six wonderful line dancers. After about three years, they finally became dancers — and that’s exciting for me.”
Karen modifies every dance and step to fit her team’s unique range of abilities, keeping their routines high-energy and crowd-ready.
“When you’re out here in front of 45,000 fans like we are in Philly, it’s so important to know your steps,” she says. “When you see those empty seats fill with fans and they’re cheering for you, that smile doesn’t come off your face.”
Fans First, Always: How “Nana Karen” Keeps the Spirit of Teaching Alive
For Karen, performing is just one part of the joy. Meeting fans face to face — sharing hugs, smiles and stories — is what makes the experience truly special.
“It’s ‘fans first, entertain always,’” she says, sharing the team’s motto. “We meet the fans personally and welcome them to the game. So many times they tell us, ‘You are the best part of the whole game.’ They just love us.”
After decades in the classroom, Karen continues to inspire through her energy, passion and joy for movement. Whether she’s teaching choreography or dancing in front of thousands, her love of community — first learned at Glassboro State — shines through every performance.
“I’ve loved being a Nana from day one,” she says. “And I’m still smiling.”
Alumni Success Stories
Explore how our alumni propel their Rowan University education into lasting success, as highlighted through our alumni success series. From Rowan University student to lifelong member of the Rowan University Alumni Association, Rowan Profs thrive at every stage of their journey. Go Profs!
