She holds Ph.D. in physical education/curriculum and instruction from Arizona State University in Tempe and a masters degree in physical education from California State University, Dominguez Hills as well as a range of professional credentials and aquatics certifications, including lifeguard training from the American Red Cross and an Adapted Aquatic Master Teacher Credential from the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation, among others. Her background in aquatics encompasses lifeguard and disaster training, multiple sclerosis aquatic specialization, U.S. Coast Guard boating and seamanship certification and credentials in water aerobics.