dietlin was born in alpena, michigan, and spent her childhood in michigan and montana. her father died when she was 13, and she and her siblings were raised by her mother. after graduating from alpena high school and alpena community college, dietlin earned a degree from michigan state university. she received a master of arts degree in philanthropy and development from st. mary's university of minnesota. dietlin served as the president for the michigan young democrats, and then was the legislative services specialist for the michigan state university senate from 1986-1991.