As a former educator who graduated with bachelor's and master's degrees in education, I understand the impact that schools and teachers have upon developing children and their potential.  

My education also included studying Political Science in China, International Business in Europe, and Marine Biology in Belize.  These diverse experiences have helped me understand and work with people from very different backgrounds.

I have participated in research projects at the Jane Goodall Ngamba Island Chimp Sanctuary in Uganda and for Cambridge University on the cognitive abilities of elephants in Thailand.   

I have experience acting as a teacher advocating for students as well as being a parent seeking effective services for my own children.  I understand the impact that educational policies and practices have upon students and families.

I have attended educational conferences at MIT, Harvard, and Stanford.  I've worked with educational and medical professionals from Lurie's Children's Hospital, Rush Medical Center, and Northwestern University.