Karl Kraebber '00

Karl Kraebber is an accomplished leader in the healthcare and biotechnology sector. He has served as Vice President of Operations at Makana Therapeutics since 2021. Prior to joining Makana Therapeutics, he directed Xenotransplantation Operations at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Surgery from 2016 to 2021. He also contributed as Project Manager for the Transplant Service Line at Indiana University Health between 2014 and 2016. His expertise extends into organizational leadership and continuous improvement, evidenced by Board and Chairperson roles with the Society for Health Systems, Institute for Industrial and Systems Engineers, as well as Lean Certifications from the University of Iowa at Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels.

Karl earned degrees in General Health Science in 2003 and Organizational Leadership in 2008 from Purdue. His commitment to excellence was recognized early on with a Scholar Award in 2002, and his active involvement as a brother in the Kappa Sigma fraternity set the tone for a career rooted in collaboration and service. Being a member of the recolonizing Chi Chapter at Purdue provided an exciting opportunity that no other house on campus could. Along with 38 men, they embarked upon the challenge to resurrect a proud brand and establish a new legacy for Kappa Sigma at Purdue.

Karl’s dedication to his alma mater and community is evident through his service on the Purdue Club of Hendricks County board and his ongoing contributions to the Chi Chapter of Kappa Sigma, where he has guided academic and alumni relations. He credits his formative fraternity experience with instilling enduring values of leadership, fellowship, and brotherhood—qualities that have shaped his career and personal life.

Karl is a devoted husband to Erin Kraebber and father to Allyson (15) and Hadley (12). He is driven by a passion for mentorship, innovation, and relationship-building, and he encourages our current undergraduate brothers to embrace risks, forge meaningful connections, and be open to new opportunities. You never know when you will meet your next mentor, business investor, or best friend. Faith in yourself, family, and friends will ensure that you can succeed in whatever happens next.