Karen holds a Bachelor of Theological Studies in Diaconal Ministry and is completing an M.A. in Social Justice and Equity Studies, focusing on addressing homelessness in Niagara. Her career has spanned corporate project management, community leadership, and advocacy for marginalized groups.

Karen is proud to stand with the Queer community and against the erosion of human rights by the radical right. Her personal journey, professional expertise, and grassroots activism make her a trusted and compassionate advocate for St. Catharines residents.

Karen's political journey is rooted in a lifelong connection to the NDP. From stuffing envelopes in the 1970s to supporting recent federal, provincial, and municipal campaigns, she has always championed progressive values. Her passion for workers’ rights and social justice was inspired by her grandparents’ role in union organizing and her father’s involvement with the Longshoreman’s Union in Vancouver.

As Vice-Chair of the Downtown Business Association, Karen has worked to bridge gaps between small businesses and community needs. Her ability to collaborate with multiple levels of government has led to meaningful solutions for issues like housing, affordability, and food security.

Karen’s leadership in grassroots initiatives, such as the Bear Clan Patrol and emergency shelter efforts, showcases her ability to organize and deliver results. Her advocacy is further amplified by her frequent media appearances, where she elevates the voices of marginalized communities. Karen is committed to coalition-building and believes in the power of working together to make meaningful change.

Karen’s advocacy combines hands-on support with policy-level change. She has expanded food programs, organized community forums on harm reduction and guaranteed livable income, and championed tenants’ and workers’ rights.

Karen stands with grassroots movements, including marches for Overdose Awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Her dedication extends to supporting individuals in accessing social assistance, housing, health services, and emergency shelter.

Education is central to Karen’s vision. She leads “poverty walks” to highlight the lived realities of St. Catharines’ most vulnerable residents and advocates for systemic change. From organizing street-level outreach to speaking at city and regional councils, Karen’s work demonstrates her unwavering commitment to justice and equity for all.

Karen envisions a St. Catharines where economic and social divides are bridged, and all residents can live with dignity. Her vision includes: 

- Expanding wraparound medical services, including dental, prescription, and mental health care. 

- Advocating for renters and tackling corporate greed in the housing market.

- Revitalizing industries with a focus on green jobs and unionized workplaces to combat both the climate and affordability crisis. 

- Holding corporations accountable for environmental clean-up, following models like the U.S. Superfund, a policy response the old GM site demands. 

- Championing reconciliation with Indigenous communities, ensuring clean drinking water and fulfilling long-overdue promises. 

Karen’s deep connections, unwavering commitment to justice, and vision for a fairer St. Catharines make her the strong, progressive voice our city needs in Ottawa. Karen is ready to build a Canada that’s fair, affordable, and where everyone can access the health care they need.