She completed her PhD in Special Education from Indiana University in May 2010, focusing her studies on learning disabilities, child and adolescent development, and teacher education. She has taught special education in Indiana and North Carolina at both middle and high school levels. She is also certified to teach elementary education. Her research interests include student/teacher relationships, inclusion, and teaching at the post-secondary level. She has presented at national and international conferences. Publications can be found in Remedial and Special Education, Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, and Teacher Education and Special Education among others.