Karen has more than 12 years of experience in service, marketing, management, technology and leadership. She is recognized as an articulate and proactive practitioner with entrepreneurial abilities that effectively build client relationships with delivery teams by raising the caliber of thinking and final outcomes.

After working as a freelance graphic artist, presentation designer and event planner for Rochester companies ranging from small graphic design firms to major corporations such as Xerox Corporation, she decided to expand her services and join forces with her husband, the award-winning cameraman and director, Mike Braden. Together they run Mikaren, where they’ve developed an excellent reputation for communicating their clients’ messages in creative ways.

Being an independent designer has allowed Karen the opportunity to travel to Italy, France, South Africa, Cuba, Mexico, the Caribbean, as well as cities throughout the United States. This travel has allowed Karen to enjoy many priceless experiences.

Graduating with bachelor’s degree from Rochester Institute of Technology, Karen remains an alumni member and is always available as an alumni mentor to students. She is active in many other community groups as well, including the Rochester Advertising Federation, RBA Women’s Council where she is an active board member, Seneca Park Zoo Corporate Sponsors, Finger Lakes Film and Video Association, and the Rochester Women’s Network. She is also a member of and is certified by the International Webmasters Association.

In her spare time, she finds it deeply rewarding to donate her design talents to worthwhile non-profit organizations, such as the Rochester Women's Council, where she chairs the communications committee and Membership Committee and sits on ATHENA Award Steering Committee. She is also involved with the Rochester Women’s Network and sits on the Marketing Committee.