A Ripley, West Virginia native, she held a degree in music from West Virginia University, a master's degree in education from the West Virginia College of Graduate Studies, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Pittsburgh.
As a resident of Ripley, West Virginia, she acquired educational qualifications such as a degree in music from West Virginia University, a graduate degree in education from the West Virginia College of Graduate Studies, and a doctoral degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh.