She was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and completed her undergraduate education at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. She attended medical school at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, in Kansas City, KS. She completed her internship at Howard University, in Washington, D.C., and residency training at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, MI. Dr. Hicks' professional and community interests include communication skills, diversity education and healthcare disparities. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and young son.