Graduated from Minneapolis Roosevelt High School. Earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Science from Normandale Community College. Obtained a Bachelors in Science Degree in Microbiology, with a minor in Chemistry, from the University of Minnesota College of Biological Sciences. Received a Masters of Arts in Teaching Degree from Hamline University. Secured licences to teach Life Sciences and Chemistry.

Have been teaching science in Twin Cities public schools since 2002. Was born, raised, and currently reside in South Side Minneapolis with my spouse, three dogs, and our cat. We enjoy spending as much time as possible with family and in the northern woods of Minnesnowta.