About
Meet Karen
Professional Speaker, Presenter, Humorist
Karen is the only woman in the world who was both a Wing Rider and a National Aerobatic Champion. If being strapped to the wing of a biplane hurling through the air at 150 miles an hour wasn’t enough, she lived her dream of becoming a National Champion flying aerobatics in the Swick-T her father built, beating 15 men out of the title.
Now Karen is a professional speaker with the desire to teach others how to stay motivated by learning to use their passion. She is charming, funny, bold, and a breath of fresh air! Karen loves interacting with her audience and helps attendees relate to her in a way that makes them believe anything is possible!
Global Account Executive
Conference Direct
Director of Business Development
The Freeman Company
Was responsible for developing the in-house audio visual market for AVW-TELAV, a division of the Freeman Companies. Hired, Supervised, Trained and Motivated 30 employees in 12 satellite offices.
Developed strategic sales processes and presentations to attract and close business to include; hotels, convention centers and corporate contracts.
Upheld brand integrity and exposed opportunities for brand recognition through strategic alliances. Utilized service consistencies to maintain and create new business development.
Was responsible for all aspects of hotel sales, operations and special events related to the hospitality community (convention and visitors bureaus, hospitality associations and corporate industry organizations).
Provided training classes on sales, leadership and customer service for Freeman Decorating and Freeman Exhibit companies.
Program Director
Executive Women International
As Director of Education of the Houston Area Chapter, I selected venues, developed productions and managed the monthly educational dinner meetings for the Houston Chapter of EWI.
Over 3000 companies and 3500 representatives are members of EWI today in 75 chapters located in major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. EWI is the premier organization for networking and leadership development for today’s business professionals and their firms.
Other Position: Mentoring – Retention Chair
President and Board Member
Meeting Professionals International
The almost 400 member Houston Area Chapter of MPI, established in 1978, empowers its members to increase their value through strategic resources for career and leadership development, networking at local chapters worldwide, and major educational conferences … regionally, nationally, and internationally. For 23,000 meeting and event professionals in over 65 countries, MPI is the inspired, global community that multiplies their potential by accelerating personal growth.
The Houston Chapter Received the “International Chapter of the Year” award in 2007.
Karen served on the board for seven years in the following positions:
President – 2007-2008
President-Elect – 2006-2007
Vice President Education – 2005-2006
Vice President Education – 2001-2003
Licenses & Certificates

Aerobatic Competency
International Council of Air Shows International Council of Air Issued Jul 1996 · No Expiration Date

Low Level Aerobatic Certification
International Council of Air Shows International Issued Aug 1995 · No Expiration date. Credential ID Solo Aerobatics Level 3 – 500 Feet

Private Aircraft Pilot
Federal Aviation Administration Apr 1978 · No Expiration Date
Testimonials
"I found Karen to be very motivational and engaging in her presentation. The content was good and uplifting material during a down economy. If you are considering hiring Karen for a future conference, I would definitely recommend her for your audience."
"Thank you for speaking at the Texoma Board Forum. You were WONDERFUL and the feedback was terrific."
“Karen did a Great Job! Loved the underlying biblical themes, even if was an accident. So true!"
"Karen used humor to convey timely information with a punch. Her message is current and guaranteed to enhance the quality of our day-to-day personal and professional lives."
"Karen was entertaining, engaging, educational and motivational. I found her refreshing and a breath of fresh air. Off the stage she was just as warm and friendly as you could hope. If our paths cross again, it will be a wonderful thing! Thanks, Karen!"
"Karen is a very detailed and highly motivational speaker. Would be a good presentation for any group to listen to."
"Karen is always eager to address new experiences, confident in her delivery of information, and appropriate and professional in her interaction with clients. It is this zest and passion for the meetings industry, her convictions and her interactive style that I highly recommend her."
"Her positive messaging along with her engaging lively presentation was well received by this audience who have been battered by the current economy."
"We are quite pleased with your performance and hope to work with you again in the future. I plan to keep you updated with our progress as we continue forward to achieve our forthcoming goals."
"Karen was Inspiring, Motivating & AMAZING!"
"Karen was inspiring and entertaining!"
"Karen was Inspiring! Motivating!! Humorous!!! Electric!!!! We loved you!!"
"Karen is amazing and has a very unique story that I am so glad I got to hear."
"Karen was Motivating! Superb! Amazing!! Great presentation that inspired us."
"She understands the importance of being able to quickly shift gears according to the market conditions and, most of all, has the ability to accurately communicate with her clients, peers and colleagues."
"Karen's presentation is right on target and she delivers her message in a positive and upbeat way. We survey each meeting and you received high marks!"
"Karen, our entire staff and tenants enjoyed every minute of your funny, dynamic presentation! You inspire others with your passion! Thank you so much for giving back!"
"It's incredible that a short speech can be so powerful as to change an attitude literally overnight and so drastically! You're AWESOME Karen. Thank you!!"