Prior to joining Swisher, Karen worked in the Human Resource field for more than 18 years, as a Director of Administration and Human Resources for manufacturing firms. During that time she served on the Greater Ann Arbor Personnel Association Board and was a member of the Society of Human Resource Professionals, where she received her PHR certification. She attended Eastern Michigan University and Kennedy Western University, studying Human Resource Management.

Karen served as President of the Dexter Area of Commerce and has held a variety of volunteer positions over the past 10 years. She served on the board of the Interfaith Hospitality Network and volunteers at the Alpha House in Ann Arbor. She currently is the entertainment chair for the Dexter Daze committee and is a member of the Women's Business Association.

Karen, a Chelsea native, has lived in the Dexter area for the past 13 years with her husband David and children Grant and Ashley. As with many moms, she spends much of her time chauffeuring her children to their activities, including football, baseball and synchronized skating events. She personally enjoys cooking, golf, and gardening.