Hon. Khara House

Khara E. House is a dynamic thought leader in communications, strategic planning, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). With a robust background in consumer PR and community engagement, she brings extensive experience in crisis communications, brand storytelling, and driving impactful initiatives. Known for her effective project management and strategic insights, she has a history of cultivating positive public images and relationships through media, corporate social responsibility, and cultural programming.

Khara’s career has spanned education, multifamily housing, and social services, with skills including operational management, public relations, and leadership and partnership in various community initiatives. Currently serving as a member of the Flagstaff City Council, her deep engagement in community service extends to serving as the Chair for the Coconino County African Diaspora Advisory Council and a board member for various nonprofit, civic, and professional organizations. In 2020, she served as the lead writer for the City of Flagstaff’s Lived Black Experience strategic plan, a detailed strategy outlining perspectives and policy recommendations for a more inclusive city and community. For her role in supporting the Lived Black Experience (LBE) CommUnity Project and adoption of the strategic plan, she received a 2020 Key to the City of Flagstaff.

Khara graduated with her bachelor’s degree in English from Messiah University in Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in English from Northern Arizona University. A lifelong learner, she holds additional certifications in Diversity and Inclusion, public affairs, and property management. She is passionate about building community connections, supporting story-based communications, and facilitating cultural programs and celebrations. In 2022 she received the National Apartment Association's DEI Champion Excellence Award and an Arizona Daily Sun 20 Under 40 professional award. In 2024 she received the Katherine Hickman Award from the LBE Project for exemplary insight and fortitude in the workplace or community diversity, and was recognized by the National League of Cities as one of their Centennial Under 40 Impact Award recipients.

In addition to her other roles, Khara is a poet, author, and educator. She is also the owner of CASA Communications, LLC, a consultancy focused on strategic planning, branding and marketing, training, and leadership development.