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

Broad expertise in nonprofits and tech

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.

Deep expertise in CRM and donor management software for nonprofits

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. Since 2024 I have lead a biannual study on donor management software use and satisfaction. I have guided dozens of organizations through their software decisions, from requirements analysis to implementation and ongoing database optimization. 

Former ED with 28 years in the nonprofit sector

My consulting work focuses on nonprofits and other 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.

Do we have anything in common?

I love the Superior Hiking Trail, babies, and singing in my Lutheran church choir. I make very good apple pie. My husband and I have two very tall sons, and we live in Minneapolis.