About

Karen Gieseke

I love questions! I am curious about people and their stories. What energizes people? What are each person’s unique talents and strengths? What brings joy to each person? How might we courageously and compassionately develop a path where you are the person you are designed to be?

Throughout my vocational journey, I have focused on accompanying people, celebrating who they are, and supporting their journey to grow through their questions and their unique talents.

Beginning with my own story on a family farm in rural Minnesota, I learned about the gift and the importance of stewarding resources: plants, soil, water, animals — and people. Creativity, talents, diversity, and art are woven into my story, as each provides opportunities to tell stories and connect people. Ultimately, it is this curiosity of people and their stories, stitched together in beautiful and unique patterns, which bring joy to me. Meeting people where they are on their journey, and accompanying each one to be their best self is central to my mission in life.

My own development includes undergrad degrees in Human Resources and Child Development at South Dakota State University, Brookings SD. The journey continued with a Master’s of Arts at Luther Seminary, St Paul MN. Certification in a number of development areas include: Intercultural Development Inventory Qualified Administrator; CliftonStrengths Certified Coach; NALIP Intentional Interim; Healthy Boundaries/Faith Trust Institute; and Safeguarding God’s Children.

My story and journey include the joy of meeting people near and far; exploring the gifts of creation and the world while hiking and traveling in all seasons with my husband, Mark; time with our family (two amazing adults with amazing spouses – and our first grandchild!); conversation and time with friends; reading a variety of fiction and non-fiction books, including thoughtful conversation in several book groups; attending live theater; watching movies from home; and always some good dark chocolate by my side!