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.
Who were some of your influences/inspirations? My Mother, I become more and more like her every day; my Dad, he fostered my love of sports; and my Husband, he’s my greatest inspiration and my biggest fan
My all time favorite movie is...Coming to America –It’s hilarious!
My favorite food is...Desserts – peach cobbler, oatmeal raisin cookies, lemon cake, popcorn balls…. I could go on and on
My favorite sport is... It’s impossible to decide, I literally love EVERY sport
What's on your Ipod? Gospel, Country, R&B, and Christmas music – I listen to it all year round
What's one of the most important lessons you've learned in life? Don’t waste time worrying, God’s got it under control!
My favorite quote is... "A man reaps what he sows"
My favorite scripture is...
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16
