In May of 1990, Karen received her Undergraduate degree from Old Dominion University with a B.S. in Special Education. Karen went on to further her education by receiving her Master's Degree from Old Dominion University in Special Education in 1993. Karen worked as an Adjunct Faculty for Old Dominion University for 3 years teaching undergraduate and graduate classes in Special Education. In January 2010, Karen completed the Behavior Analyst Certification requirements from Florida Institute of Technology. In November 2010, Karen completed the Behavior Analyst Board Certification requirements. Karen provides ABA services to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Karen was a Special Education teacher in the Chesapeake Public School system for 11 years, working with children ages Preschool to High School. She then served 20 years as a Principal for a regional program that serves children with autism and behaviorally challenging students. Karen holds a Post Graduate Professional Teaching License in Intellectual Disabilities and Severe and Profoundly Handicapped (K-12).
Karen and her husband Sam have two sons. Sammy is a Physician Assistant and Brandon is an Assistant Controller.