Karen began her career in the printing and promotional products industry, eventually turning around an office set to close into record profitability. From there she spent five years working for Devon Energy Corporation, a Fortune 100 company, acquiring and building out facility space for a growing and fast-moving company. After her son was born, she left the demands of travel and time away from home and pursued an innovative role in both marketing and fundraising for non-profit businesses, including downtown Oklahoma City and a medical foundation. Since 2005 she has been a part of various management functions at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), finding her greatest passion fulfilled in adult education and training.
Karen believes strongly in active community volunteerism. She was elected to the Yukon Public Schools Board of Education in 2007, and currently serves as President of the School Board. She has been an active leader in the development of a new high school campus and the restructuring of every school in the district. She is active in various public education organizations, including the Oklahoma State School Boards Association. Karen has also led and participated in numerous leadership organizations and events, including Leadership Oklahoma City, Leadership UCO, the Oklahoma Educators’ Leadership Academy and more. She is an active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, and serves as President of the Journey’s Sunday School class.
Karen and Devery live in Yukon where their greatest pride is in their four children and four grandchildren, and a network of great friendships from all walks of life.