Karen grew up in Clarion, PA and after graduating from college moved to New Mexico before joining the US Army. After a 28-year career in the service, she and her husband moved back to Las Cruces. Karen completed her BFA at New Mexico State University in 2018 and prior to this earned a Master's in Education from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA.

Her work has been shown at the NMSU University Art Museum, Las Cruces Art Museum, Art Obscura, and Rokoko Gallery. Karen teaches OutsmART workshops at the University Art Museum and also serves on the Friends of the University Art Gallery Board. She also enjoys photographing the beautiful New Mexico night skies, local events, and informal nuptials. She is currently the Program Manager at The Doña Ana Arts Council.