Karen is the Director of Foundation Programs for the Cuesta College Foundation, a non profit corporation supporting student success.  She manages all of the Foundation’s resource development programs including the annual fund campaigns, alumni, business partners’ and ambassadors programs, recognition events, and support for various projects funded by grants. 

Prior to working with the Foundation, Karen owed and managed a community relations consulting firm working with businesses in San Luis Obispo, Fresno and Bakersfield Counties.  The primary focus was providing companies with services requiring community relations, strategic planning, and/or marketing to both targeted audiences as well as the general public.  Karen has over 20 years of experience in the areas of program development, marketing and public relations, budget and fiscal management and a strong base as a trainer in the areas of customer service and problem solving. 

A resident of SLO County for over 25 years, Karen spends her personal time with her husband Art who works with County Office of Education and daughter, Alex and son, Max. 

Karen attended classes at Cuesta College and is a graduate of Cal Poly with a Bachelor’s in Social Science and Masters in Education.