Born and raised in Ohio, she has taught on Long Island, New York; at Iowa State University; and at Brigham Young University, where she became acquainted with and joined the Church. After receiving her doctorate degree at Brigham Young University, she became a full professor and also served as administrative assistant to Presidents Dallin H. Oaks and Jeffrey R. Holland. She served in a similar position to the Young Women general presidency. She concluded her professional career teaching at the Orem Institute of Religion. Carolyn is currently serving on the Sunday School general board and also as a member of the board of directors of Deseret Book Company. She enjoys being with people, having opportunities to serve, and modeling her ever-increasing hat collection. She has a cabin in the woods, a four-wheeler, and is just waiting for a time when she can “let loose.”