Currently, Karen is a community builder and non-profit leader committed to the redevelopment of Kansas City's Urban Core. Her committee service on both the Heart of the City and Vine Street Economic Development Area Plans will guide Kansas City’s development for years to come.

Certified in Project Management by the Mid America Regional Council (M.A.R.C.), Karen used public participation to lead a successful partnership between a community and the Parks Department. The partnership added 1.2 million dollars in amenities to an area park.  Project funding was provided by Public Improvement Advisory Council (P.I.A.C.)  Karen has received Kansas City's Good Neighbor award for her civic involvement.

Karen supports Kansas City’s youth.  She has served on the board of High Aspirations Mentoring organization.  She has also worked with the KC Dawgs Athletic group and Nile Valley Aquaponic Males2Men program.

Karen is certified in Mediation by the Center for Conflict Resolution. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Like Mary, Karen also lives works and plays in the greater Kansas City, Missouri area.