I was born in Chicago, Illinois to loving parents who both were involved in the local real estate market. Once in my twenties, I joined them as a licensed Realtor® in "the Windy City." Later I felt the call to public service and joined the United States Army. After my service obligation ended, I attended the University of Miami where I earned my B.S. in Nursing. I then returned to military service, this time as a Naval Officer and Registered Nurse (RN) in the United State Navy, stationed at Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD).