Norene made a career out of helping others through her involvement with MSU and her community.  She served MSU for many years as president of the Calhoun County MSU Alumni Club and served a three-year term on the MSU Alumni Association’s National Alumni Board.  She was a member of MSU’s Beaumont Tower Society and the Honorary Coaches Club. 

Active in civic affairs, Keaton served on the boards of Goodwill Industries, United Way, S.A.F.E. Place, Junior League of Battle Creek and Family & Children’s Services.  At Goodwill, Keaton served two three-year terms and was named vice president in 1978 and president in 1979.

Norene’s dedication and commitment for MSU were so deep that she fulfilled her duties as awards committee member of the MSU Alumni Association right up until she passed away.  She held onto her Club Presidency of the Calhoun County MSU Alumni Association and was Master of Ceremony at the Calhoun County MSU outing during the middle of chemotherapy on May 25, 1999, just two months before her death.