For 30 years, she taught students with various disabilities including those with an autism spectrum disorder. She attended George Mason University in Virginia and completed her Ph.D. in Special Education in 2003. That same year, she joined the faculty at Oakland University. Her research interest includes the topic of Quality of Life for individuals with autism. Dr. Graetz works closely with Oakland University Center for Autism, Research, and Support (OUCARES) to improve the lives of those affected by autism.