Karen D. Camper is a Democratic member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, representing District 87 in Memphis since 2008. A Memphis native originally from Chicago's southside, she made history as Tennessee's first African-American woman to lead a caucus in the General Assembly and the first African-American House Democratic Leader, elected in November 2018 and serving from 2019-present. Notable achievements include her 21-year military career as a retired Chief Warrant Officer and Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Army, past presidency of the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women and National Foundation of Women Legislators, and membership in the Tennessee Legislative Black Caucus. She previously served as Minority Caucus Treasurer and holds committee roles such as Finance, Ways and Means; Business and Utilities; Ethics; Rules; and Joint Pensions and Insurance. Camper owned Key II Entertainment, worked as a substitute teacher in Memphis City Schools, and is a devoted mother to her adult son, Bruce Jr.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Attended Southside High School in Memphis; graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1981; completed the Center for the Advancement of Leadership Skills.
• Political Experience: Elected to Tennessee House District 87 in 2008 ; Democratic Leader ; former Minority Floor Leader; served on committees including Calendar and Rules, Commerce, Government Operations, Judiciary, Transportation, and various subcommittees.