About Kari McClure
k.s. mcclure, author of the purchase (coming soon)
My Story
Kari is an accomplished marketing and communications professional whose interest in history and community engagement matches her passion for storytelling.
A published journalist and digital content specialist, she brings a storyteller’s perspective to her work. Her debut novel, The Purchase, is a sweeping, character-driven historical drama that explores the consequences of ambition and sacrifice amid the backdrop of America’s Louisiana Purchase. Kari’s deep knowledge of the Lewis and Clark expedition is grounded in more than twenty years of personal research and travel to historic sites, dating to her service on the governor-appointed Iowa Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Commission.
In addition, Kari has thirty-five years of experience in journalism, communications, government, historical preservation and education, and nonprofit leadership. Her roles include tourism director, museum executive, public information officer and mayoral chief of staff for a top 100 U.S. city.
Throughout her distinguished career, she has led high-impact projects, managed tourism offices, and received multiple commendations for her leadership and dedication to community service with roles in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Green Bay, Wisconsin, and various Arizona cities.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is originally from Council Bluffs, Iowa, where she began her career as a news reporter. Her hometown of Council Bluffs was named for the Lewis and Clark expedition’s first official council with Native Americans. She resides in Arizona, has two grown children, and loves traveling throughout our beautiful nation.
Meet Kari
September 14-17, 2025
Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance Annual Gathering
Marriott Hotel on The Plaza. An annual gathering of Lewis & Clark historians, officials and enthusiasts. Authors, books & vendors session Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 1:15 pm in the Ballroom.
Creating awareness of our history inspires people to embark on their own journey of discovery.