Kari’s rural roots run deep. She lives in far western Minnesota where her family has lived for generations. She has a strong sense of place and is passionate about what it means to ‘live rural’ today. As a talented rural leader, she is focused on building just, prosperous, and inclusive communities and working on winning rural strategies to better the lives of all rural people.
Kari comes to rural organizing as a teacher who has focused her career keenly on children and families. Working part-time for CURE, she continues to work full time as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher as well as the School Readiness Coordinator for the Ortonville, MN School District. She’s also the union president and a staunch advocate for teachers and support staff.
Kari holds a Master of Science in Special Education from Minnesota State University Moorhead. In 2022 Kari ran a progressive grassroots campaign as a candidate for the Minnesota State Senate.
At CURE, Kari is focused on expanding our rural organizing strategy and working with our partners to engage community members and voters on issues important to Minnesota’s rural future.
Outside of work, Kari enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and finding solitude in the great outdoors.