Karen Lynch has built her career on a simple but fearless principle: say what needs to be said, even when it's uncomfortable. She calls it "putting the moose on the table"—naming the thorny issues others tiptoe around and tackling them with empathy and understanding.
It's part of a leadership philosophy that has shaped her remarkable journey to the top of the business world. As CEO of CVS Health, Lynch led one of America's largest companies through pivotal moments, earning the Fortune magazine title of No. 1 Most Powerful Woman in Business three years in a row. Now, she's sharing her hard-earned lessons in her new book, Taking Up Space: Get Heard, Deliver Results, and Make a Difference.
"I was a reluctant author, quite frankly," Lynch admits. "My husband and I had a lot of conversations about whether I was ready to share my story. But I realized I had a platform and a perspective worth sharing—especially about the obstacles and barriers I've faced. If I inspire even one person, I'll feel really successful."
Resilience and optimism are a powerful combination. The ability to stay the course when things are tough is made easier through a positive attitude.Taking Up Space: Get Heard, Deliver Results, and Make a Difference, by Karen S. Lynch
From the boardroom to the classroom
Lynch's leadership philosophy extends beyond corporate walls. She believes universities have a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders—not just with technical skills, but with character-shaping qualities.
"As I think about the curriculum of universities, I think about the importance of teaching students to develop curiosity, adaptability, resilience and empathy," she says. "Curiosity sparks innovation and lifelong learning. Adaptability prepares you for our ever-changing world. Resilience helps you navigate life's murky waters. And empathy allows you to make big, bold decisions with humility."
This alignment of values is what drew Lynch and her husband, Kevin, to Lynn University.
"Education is all about opportunity, and I've benefited greatly from mine," she says. "Lynn has clear strategies around innovation. They're focused on ensuring students are incredibly successful, and they're not afraid to try new things. That forward-looking spirit resonates deeply with me."
A gift with purpose
That shared vision inspired the Lynches to make a $5 million gift to Lynn University—a contribution designed to empower students to dream big and lead boldly.
"My story isn't about the accolades," Lynch says. "It's about the impact Kevin and I can have on others—the difference we can make in people's lives and in communities. That's what inspired us to give this gift to Lynn University."
The donation creates significant opportunities for Lynn students—fueling innovation, supporting leadership development, and ensuring that future graduates are equipped to face challenges with courage and compassion.
Leading boldly into the future
In both her book and her philanthropy, Lynch issues the same challenge: take up space in the world, use your voice and lead with humility.
"For me, it's really quite simple—it's about dreaming big and leading boldly," she says. "I hope others will feel inspired to do the same."
With Taking Up Space now in readers' hands and her commitment to Lynn University helping shape future leaders, Karen Lynch continues to put the moose on the table—and invites the rest of us to do it, too.
