Meet Karen Backes

  • Title: Dean of Admission
  • e-mail: kbackes@csbsju.edu
  • Phone: (800) 544-1489
  • Territory: Saint John's Prep School and Kansas City area 
  • Hometown: Melrose, Minn.
  • High School: Melrose High School
  • College: 1987 CSB/SJU graduate
  • Major: Communication

College Activities:
I was a writer for The Record (student newspaper). I worked at HAB and Saint John's Prep School. I was on the track team and involved with student government. I studied abroad in Salzburg, Austria.

Fun facts:
I was a transfer student. I've been involved with the Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) program for many years. I participate in Companions on a Journey, a group that promotes spiritual companioning. I enjoy running and camping and I have two children – Emma (15 years), Christopher (13 years).

These are a few of my favorite things:

  • Movies: Sound of Music, Dirty Dancing and Grease
  • Plays: Joseph and the Amazing Techni-color Dream Coat, Phantom of the Opera and Mama Mia
  • Books: Kite Runner and Cider House Rules
Here's my family!

Staff Photo
Staff Photo
Staff Photo
Staff Photo