- Born in Columbus, Indiana

- Raised and attended schools in Hamilton, Ohio

- Graduated high school in 1976

- Worked as a factory worker for a tile manufacturing company (1976-1984)

- In 1984 joined the Army and became a paratrooper in the 82d Airborne Division. After a 22-year career, three overseas tours, and numerous stateside duty assignments, retired in 2006

- College Education: Bachelors Degree in Training and Development and a Masters Degree in Education