She served as a 2016-2017 "Faculty Fellow in Technology" at the University of St. Thomas. In 2014, she received an international Blackboard “Exemplary Course” award which represents significant achievements in outstanding online course design. In 2012, she was recognized as the Autism Society "Professional of the Year." She has a Ph.D. In Urban Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a focus in Exceptional Education. At UST, she coordinates the autism spectrum disorders program in the School of Education.  She has served on the Autism Society of America National Board and on the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities Board. Two governors have appointed her to serve on Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities. Additionally, she serves on the advisory board for the Minnesota Life College. Her goal in life is to make a difference in the field of ASD.