Tell us about yourself. Tell us who you are and what you do.
I am Kari Stenger, a girl who loves numbers and helping people! I work at Light Consulting as a senior accountant, helping lead a team of 12 as we make business and life light for our clients through CFO services. I am an Enneagram 2, ESFJ, and my top three strengths are positivity, communication, and discipline. Outside of work, I am a fiancé to Matt and a dog mom to Harley girl. My favorite title is Auntie Kari. I grew up a lake girl in Detroit Lakes and found my way back home. With a commute to West Fargo for work, it is a guarantee that my gas light is always on E or I am way past due for an oil change. My favorite word is ope!
Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why? Who inspires you?
I am grateful for the invaluable lessons my parents, Tony and Nancy Stenger, have instilled in me, particularly their demonstration of dedication, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. I feel extremely blessed to work with Sarah West. Sarah has been not only a dear friend but a profound mentor. Her unwavering desire to be more and make a positive impact has been a guiding light for me. Witnessing her create a company with strong core values has inspired me to strive for excellence and purpose. What sets Sarah apart is her integration of Jesus and faith into the workplace, aligning personal values with professional pursuits. My team at Light Consulting inspires me daily to show up and work hard making life and business light. There are so many women in the Fargo-Moorhead community that inspire me and I feel very grateful for my opportunity to walk alongside 34 of them in this program. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without my fiancé Matt who takes such great care of me and shows me so much support and love and, most importantly, keeps me laughing.
What drives you?
As an Enneagram 2, The Helper, I truly just want to help people whether it is my team, clients, the community, friends, or family.
What do you think can be improved in our business community?
Business doesn’t have to be difficult or heavy. Let’s continue to create a strong business community with resources, mentors, connections, and a mindset of ‘What if it were easy?’
What are some important life lessons you have learned?
I have lost many people in my life which has solidified the lesson that ‘Life is short.’ It taught me to be intentional about how I live my life, how I spend my time, and who and what is most important at the end of the day.
