She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Ferris State University in 1997 with High Distinction and her Doctor of Optometry degree from Michigan College of Optometry in 2001 with Highest Distinction. She was the 2001 recipient of the Marchon® Eyewear Practice Management Award. After graduation, Dr. Schad practiced in the Muskegon and Grand Rapids area until 2012 when she accepted a position with a high volume ophthalmology practice in Hastings, Lowell and Ionia, Michigan. Also in 2012, she joined Michigan College of Optometry as Adjunct Clinical Faculty and became involved in the clinical education of MCO students.