Hi, I’m Karen, and I am a nonprofit technology strategist who loves helping people solve problems – from making their work easier and more enjoyable, to enabling their organization to more effectively achieve its mission. 

My 20+ years experience in nonprofit leadership, consulting, and capacity building earned me a broad knowledge of how people, process, and technology can work together to create impact. I write, speak, and advise organizations on technology leadership, software selection, user adoption, innovation, and strategic IT alignment.

CRM is a particular area of expertise. I’m familiar with leading donor management database products and maintain relationships with the vendors, and oversaw numerous CRM guides while at Tech Impact and Idealware, including the Consumers Guide to Low-Cost Fundraising Software. I have guided dozens of organizations through their software decisions, from requirements analysis to implementation and ongoing database optimization. 

My consulting work focuses on the intersection of technology strategy, leadership, and culture for mission based organizations. I have worked in a variety of roles in sector-strengthening organizations such as Tech Impact (Chief Advancement Officer), Idealware (Executive Director), MAP for Nonprofits (Director of Technology & Innovation), and thedatabank (Director of Business Development). I serve on the grant review board for the Shavlik Family Foundation and the board of directors for the Minneapolis Southwest High School Performing Arts Committee. I earned my MBA in Nonprofit Management from the University of St. Thomas.