I grew uin rural East Tennessee. I studied humanities at Johns Hopkins University, worked on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, took graduate courses in education, studied dance, taught English in Eastern Europe and China, and worked as a freelance writer. At Yale University, I edited a magazine, studied Chinese and managed education programs. At University of Arizona, I studied Spanish, anthropolgy and law. I practiced law as a trial attorney for government, represented immigrants seeking political asylum, then started my own law firm. I created and managed a family business in North Carolina. I served as member of board of directors and as trustee for Tucson Community School. Currently I teach law classes at UA and act as guardian for disabled persons. I volunteer with several youth organizations in Tucson.