Karen Holman has been active in the community for many years, including a long record of public service and environmental stewardship. Over the past 20 years Karen has served as Mayor, City Councilmember, and Planning Commissioner. Before being elected to the board of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District in 2018, Karen co-chaired its 2013-14 Community Advisory Committee that created Midpen’s updated Vision Plan. Karen launched the idea of a local history museum and is one of the founders of the Palo Alto History Museum.
Born and raised in Missouri, Karen has lived in Palo Alto since 1975. Karen had a long career in graphic design before pursuing work in the conservation and historic preservation field, including serving as executive director of the Palo Alto History Museum. She holds a B.A. in graphic arts from the University of Arkansas.
“Knowing our history, especially local history, provides individuals and groups of people with a sense of place and inspiration for what is possible.”