After graduating from MHS, I went to Iowa State University and met my husband, John. I majored in advertising and had almost two successful years working for Business Publications Corporation in downtown Des Moines. I then went back to Iowa State where I earned my master's in journalism and mass communication where I worked for nearly five years as an academic adviser and adjunct instructor. I have three children John “Jack” (10), Julia (8), and Jenna (6). I have been an adjunct instructor at Drake University in the Journalism School for 10 years. My husband, John, is president of a family owned insurance brokerage firm, The National Benefit Corp. in West Des Moines. I also enjoy volunteering with my kids’ school and other service organizations around Des Moines.