About Karen
I grew up on the East Coast in a close-knit Jewish community. I’ve lived in Seattle on the unceded and traditional territories of the Coast Salish people for more than 25 years. I’ve raised two children here who are now young adults.
At the center of my life and work is a commitment to building relationships and community. This led me to the nonprofit sector from the start of my career. The theme across my varied life and work experiences is deep listening. I started learning this skill first as a documentary filmmaker, cultivated it as a leader in arts organizations and for the past ten years, have honed it as a consultant to nonprofits.
My Work
I collaborate closely with nonprofits as they write their next chapters, address challenges and shape their futures. This is work that I love and which I consider a privilege to do.
The nonprofit sector, like every sector of our society, is shaped by the pain and tragedy of historic inequities. Several years ago, I began the work to increase my understanding of how white supremacy culture shapes society and how it shapes me. I am on the lifetime journey to learn how I can bring anti-racist thinking and action to my practice and to my life.
For Fun
In my free time, you’ll find me making art (specifically paper collage), gardening, volunteering for an arts organization or hiking in this particularly beautiful corner of the world.
“Karen brings simplification and clarity to complex and challenging situations. With a firm and confident manner, she very gently leads individuals and organizations to new insights. Hands down, Karen is my #1 speed dial for strategic advice. ”