Karla Nivens

Karla was born in Chicago, Illinois but moved to Dallas when she was 11 months old, so she definitely considers herself a Dallas girl.  She grew up watching and learning to love the Dallas Cowboys, the Dallas Mavericks, and the Texas Rangers with her Dad and two brothers.  But, her Mom was the one most influential in her falling in love with music and more specifically worship music.  Her Mom decided that all three children had to first learn how to play the piano, and then pick another instrument to learn.  So, Karla picked the saxophone as her second instrument.  However, if you ask Karla today if she plays the saxophone she will deny it!  Karla graduated from Tyler Street Christian Academy and Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, with a Bachelors in Communication Disorders. Go Raiders!!!

After graduating from Texas Tech, Karla became an elementary music teacher for DISD.  She also toured with Gospel Artist, Kirk Franklin, as well as sang back-up vocals for Yolanda Adams, Michael Buble, Shirley Caesar, Fred Hammond, and Crystal Lewis.  Karla enjoys game nights at home with her family.  She and her husband Roosevelt Jr. have two children, Naomi and Roosevelt III.  They all love taking trips to anywhere with an ocean view and are passionate about volunteering in the community.  Karla's family started a non-profit organization called Love Ministries so that family members and friends could take part in giving to and educating those who are less fortunate.