I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I grew up mostly on various farms and in rural areas. I joined the U.S. Navy when I was 17 and served as a combat medic. I served on a ship out of Sasebo, Japan and then at a hospital in Sigonella, Italy. I was fortunate while in the Navy to have traveled all around the world. While serving in the Navy I began working on my educational goals. Upon leaving the service, I transitioned into teaching. I hold a PhD in Education, as well as an MS in Disability Studies, an MS in Higher Education Administration, and an MA in English. I also speak Spanish and Japanese.