Connie graduated from the University of West Florida with a degree in Elementary Education. While living in Florida, she taught 5th grade for 8 years and was selected for “Who’s Who Among American Teachers” several times.

She was a foster parent for 4 children, including a little girl with disabilities. She also worked as a community coach in an arts based day program for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

She works primarily with families of school aged children with disabilities. She is the advisor for Include USA (Unique Self Advocates), a self-advocacy group for high-school students and adults.