If the price is your peace, the cost is too high (Kara Solutions - S.A.W.)

Born and raised in Topeka, KS, I am a survivor of severe childhood traumas that have allowed me to show others that we do not have to be a product of yesterday. I also had every opportunity to become a victim of those circumstances. I did not take the road toward addiction and sadness, I decided to use that pain and be a light to others. After I graduated from Topeka West High School in 1987, I left my "sheltered life" and went to St. Louis University and graduated with a dual major in management and information systems in 1991. I wanted to pursue a career in the legal field and settled for an AAS in Paralegal studies. After a 4.0 GPA from the American Institute out of Phoenix, AZ, I continued teaching legal research to future students for three more years. 

I entered the corporate world and have had careers in expositions (tradeshows), training insurance agents to sell insurance to seniors, and being promoted to the Director of HR. Segued into the railroad industry and ended up back in Human Resources via the automobile industry.  

For over 12 years I have perfected my craft in HR and decided to add to my pedigree by earning my master’s degree in HR Management. The idea of leading and guiding people to become their best selves absolutely fills my cup. I have mentored a few young ladies through their own college, educational pursuits and remain humbled by their accomplishments as well. 

For the past 35 years, I have been an umpire/referee in three different sports. I have recently joined the USA Volleyball referee team and earned my stripes to be seen by the Olympic referee committee. Here I can also mentor young girls and be an example of overcoming some truly devastating moments. 

I have one sister and two brothers. Two of us were the primary caregivers of my mom, who lost her battle with dementia on October 6, 2024. During  this time, I still maintained a 4.0 GPA at Franklin University. I am also supported by my village of friends, who have encouraged me to never give up despite heartbreak and health challenges. 

We can STOP when we run into a wall and stay stuck, or we can find ways to hurdle that wall and press towards all that is waiting for us. My message will be filled with encouragement, some humor, and most of all, when we know better, we do better. And this, we do when we live life on and with P.U.R.P.O.S.E.