Meet Kara Coates

Education, Gahanna, and giving back to the community are elements in my DNA.

I moved to Gahanna with my husband, Kevin, in 2006, just in time for our twins, Lily and Evan, to start school at Gahanna Lincoln Elementary. We could have lived anywhere around Columbus, but we intentionally chose Gahanna—a diverse and caring community that truly invests in its people.

Eighteen years later, choosing Gahanna remains one of the best decisions we've ever made as a family. 2025 is a special year for us: Lily graduated from The Ohio State University, and Evan from Kent State University.

I've watched my children thrive, excel, and achieve thanks to the support, care, and dedication of the Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools. I want to ensure other families continue to experience the same well-rounded education that prepares students for lifelong success.

Before my role on the Board of Education, I was a proud and active parent—supporting my children, their teachers, administrators, and our school community. In 2021, I decided it was my turn to give back by running for the Gahanna-Jefferson Board of Education. It has been an honor to serve, and I would be proud to continue working on behalf of our students, families, and community.

Background and Professional Experience

I grew up in New Jersey and earned my Bachelor of Science in Communications from Ohio University and my Master of Healthcare Administration from Franklin University. After falling in love with Ohio, I made it my home over 30 years ago.

For the past 18 years, I have been a proud associate of OhioHealth, currently serving as an advisor for provider and associate well-being. I am passionate about problem-solving, transparent communication, and creating experiences that bring people together. Over the past three years, my work has focused on building programs that support mental and emotional health and teaching suicide prevention.

Volunteerism and Community Involvement:
I am proud to serve as:

• Co-Chair of the OhioHealth Disabilities Awareness Wellness Network, supporting inclusive environments for associates and patients.
• Co-Chair of the OhioHealth Arts Collaborative, using the arts to promote health and well-being.
• A member of Gahanna GLOW (Giving Local 100+ Women), a giving circle supporting central Ohio nonprofits.
• A member of the Gahanna Juneteenth Planning Committee, working to celebrate freedom, culture, and community.
• A member of the Gahanna Pride Planning Committee, creating supportive and safe environments.

Giving back has always been a part of who I am, and I remain committed to serving Gahanna with heart, experience, and integrity.