Graduate Bay View High School; Bowhay Institute Fellow, La Follette School, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2001; Flemming Fellow, Center for Policy Alternatives, 2003.

Former small business manager.

Member- Legislative Democrats Labor Workgroup (founder, cochair 2021-22); Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (board member); Bay View Historical Society; Bay View Neighborhood Association; American Council of Young Political Leaders (delegate to Israel and Palestine, 2001); Major, Wisconsin Wing, Civil Air Patrol Legislative Squadron (official Auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force).

Former member- Heroes for Healthcare, 2021-23; State Committee to Celebrate the Centennial Anniversary of Wisconsin's Ratification, 2019; Delegate to U.S. President Electoral College, 2000; State Minimum Wage Council (governor's appointee), 2005; Assembly Democratic Task Force on Working Families (chair), 2003; State Assembly Milwaukee Caucus (chair 2005, 2003); Milwaukee Committee on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault; Milwaukee City Council Parents and Teachers Association.

Recipient- Wisconsin Environmental Decade Clean 16 2000; Wisconsin Ob/Gyn Physicians Legislator of the Year 2000; Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence DV Diva 2003; Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Certificates of Commendation 2006, 2005; Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters Conservation Champion 2022, 2019, 2017, 2015, 2013, 2011, 2009, 2007; Wisconsin Women's Alliance Legislation Award 2009-10; Professional Firefighters of Wisconsin Legislator of the Year 2010; Wisconsin Grocers Association Friend of Grocers 2010; Cudahy Veterans' Service Award 2010; AMVETS State Legislative Advocacy Award 2011; Mothers Against Drunk Driving Legislator of the Year 2018.

Elected to Milwaukee School Board, 1991-98; Assembly since 1998.

Leadership positions- Minority Caucus Sergeant at Arms 2019, 2017; Minority Caucus Secretary 2001.

Member of State Fair Park Board