Karen Patterson

Biography

Hello! My name is Karen Patterson, and I am the office assistant at the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI). I am a Michigan Tech Alumna with a two-year degree in forest technology. I was born in El Paso, Texas, and am the oldest of eight children. My father was in the military, which meant we moved often, living in the states of Texas (twice), Wisconsin (twice), and Alaska. My parents were born and raised in Houghton. When my father retired, we moved to Chassell, where I graduated from high school.

I am married to Mike Patterson (who works at Wadsworth Hall), and we have a son named Blake. I also have two older children: Andrew and Courtney (who were both born in Idaho). I have two young grandchildren: Aveia and Jaxon. As you can see, I come from a big family!

I am one of the newest members of the CDI family. I will be providing support for our front office and will be helping with travel and meeting arrangements for student organizations and staff. I am an excellent listener and problem solver. Be forewarned, though—I am a Libra. True to their nature, I can usually see both sides to a situation.

I am very happy to say that I have found my niche, and my new family, here at CDI.