She completed undergraduate coursework at Northwestern University and received her Bachelor's degree in psychology from JMU. She subsequently received her PhD from the University of Virginia. Dr. Talley teaches courses and conducts research in the area of behavioral pharmacology and memory. Her experience as a scientist and her interest in issues surrounding racial and cultural differences enable her to speak candidly and authentically about the impact of "otherness." She also conducts workshops on cultural diversity in academic, civic, and business settings.