Born and raised in Garnerville, Karen graduated from North Rockland High School in 1971.

Karen served as Deputy Village Clerk for the Village of West Haverstraw for 35 years before her appointment as Town Clerk.

Karen is a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, the New York Association of Village Clerks,

Karen was named to the 2004 Municipal Clerks Honor Roll and is recipient of 25, 30 and 35 year Certificates of Public Service through the New York State Conference of Mayors.