Her teaching and research interests include philanthropy, volunteerism, civil society, and military families. Previously, she worked as a chief development officer and management consultant in the nonprofit sector for 15 years, raising over $10 million in operating funds in the arts, social services, and education. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of South Carolina, a Master of Arts in Arts Policy and Administration from The Ohio State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy Public Administration and Urban Policy from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.