Karen Keys-Gamarra was born in St. Louis, Missouri.[1] Keys-Gamarra moved to Fairfax County in 1990. She earned a bachelor's degree from Tulane University in 1982 and a J.D. from Washington University School of Law in 1987.[1] Keys-Gamarra's career experience includes working as an attorney in private practice, as a state employee, and as a court-appointed attorney representing children in cases involving abuse, neglect, and contested adoptions. Her service experience includes being a member of the Fairfax County Planning Commission. Keys-Gamarra and her husband have three sons who graduated from the district.[2][3]

Keys-Gamarra has been affiliated with the following organizations:[4]

• George Mason University Carter School of Political Leadership, Political Leadership Advisory Council
• Virginia NOW
• Virginia Women's Attorneys Association
• Virginia State Bar
• Fairfax Bar Association
• Time to Fly