Kari was born and raised by parents who grew up on farms in the Midwest. They met at church, which became the home away from home for their four kids.

 

Starting at age 12, Kari began earning money by picking produce in the fields. Her parents passed down to her a love of the Pacific Northwest, a strong work ethic and civic mindedness. From her Dad she caught an early interest in politics; from her Mom a passion for design and color.

 

Kari graduated from Pacific Lutheran University with a degree in Anthropology. Following a brief stint at the investment firm Frank Russell Company, she enrolled at University of Oregon Law School from which she received a law degree; studies included Estate planning, securities regulation, juvenile law and tax policy.

 

Her successful 45 year career has prepared her well for the Washington State Senate. She’s overseen investment pools of over $500 million, large budgets and complex organizations. Kari has worked with a wide variety of people and cultures, and lived in diverse neighborhoods. These include the inner city of Detroit, an upscale suburb of the Twin Cities in Minnesota, and in the desert foothills surrounding Tucson, Arizona. She has been a Vice President of a Fortune 20 company and CEO of two major foundations. She’s raised millions for programs in higher education. She has in-depth knowledge of the SE Washington region, including the 16th LD, in part due to her work at the Blue Mountain Community Foundation from which she retired in 2020.

 

Her lifelong passion has been in finding ways to help people live better and be happier. She has overcome personal challenges as a grateful recovering alcoholic (over 11 years). She is married to Jim Peterson, a retired community college administrator who continues to manage his family’s farms.

 

She is an enthusiastic step-mother and grandmother.