Carmen is originally from New Brighton, MN, and moved to Sioux Falls in 1983 to attend Augustana University where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. In 1989 she returned to Augustana as the Head Volleyball coach for 2 years. She then served as Senior Associate Director for Recreational Services for 31 years. Carmen married Mark in 1987. They have 3 adult children. Keegan is married to Alaina; they both teach at Brandon Valley High School. Peyton is a kindergarten teacher at the Immersion school in Sioux Falls. Cale is the head volleyball coach at O'Gorman High School and a full-time club volleyball coach for Avera Kairos Club.
Carmen committed her life to Christ at Christikon bible camp in high school where she began a personal relationship with Jesus. "My story is not what happened to me but what God has done for me". Life has certainly had its challenges over the years and Carmen has learned to rely on the Lord to see her through each season of life. "The blessing we all have is the gift of a second chance for our redemption and God's repurposing."
Carmen has been a member of Faith Baptist for over 26 years. Along with her husband Mark, she has served in various ways - teaching children from preschool to college, assisting in the kitchen for Wednesday night activities, helping in the nursery or the new membership classes, leading a Faith Group; a little bit of everything! Carmen is currently an Office Ministry Assistant at Faith, tasked with customer service and office administration.
Carmen enjoys playing volleyball, pickleball, and hiking (especially with her adult children). You may find Carmen walking or biking to and from work. She loves to travel and is always planning her next big or little adventure!