After accompanying her fourth grade choir for a school program, Karissa realized she had a special gift for music.

She pursued her passion through piano lessons, studying under Dr. Kay Carlson at the University of Minnesota, Morris, beginning in eighth grade. She continued to accompany school ensembles, lead worship services, compete in piano contests, and perform at music camps throughout her high school years.

Upon high school graduation, Karissa attended Bemidji State University where she studied under Dr. Shannon Wettstein, Dr. Seth Beckman, Dr. Patrick Riley, and Professor Margaret Maxwell. Karissa received a Bachelor of Arts in Composition, Piano Performance and Pedagogy, and Organ Performance. She was awarded the Carl O. Thompson Scholarship and the Spangler Piano Scholarship for her musical gifts.

Karissa's love of music led her to work in churches as an organist, pianist, and music director.

Over the years, her music ministry has expanded to include directing handbell choirs with ringers as young as eight years old. Her congregation's choir doubled in size under her direction and even needed to purchase additional choir robes! She also directs contemporary praise bands and special ensembles for holidays and church events.

Karissa loves to compose. Her pieces are now being performed around the nation and internationally. In 2011, she was commissioned by the professional choral ensemble, From Age to Age, to arrange O Holy Night for SSAATTBB with marimba for their Christmas tour. Karissa's first choral anthem was released through Shawnee Press. Lorenz, Agape (Hope), Jeffers, Morning Star, Beckenhorst Press, and Ringing Word have published several of her handbell compositions.

Karissa lives in Minnesota with her family.