[4] VanBuren graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 1983 with a degree in journalism, and then went on to obtain a Masters in Business Administration from Mount Saint Mary College in 1997.

In 1993, VanBuren joined the media relations group at Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation in Poughkeepsie, NY.

[2] As Regent of the Beacon, New York, Melzingah Chapter from 1998 to 2001, VanBuren chaired the Executive Board and was responsible for the stewardship of the 1709 Madam Brett Homestead, the oldest building in Dutchess County.

In 2000, she led a hike to the top of Mount Beacon that involved more than 600 people rededicating Melzingah's 1900 monument to Revolutionary War soldiers.

She chose the theme "Rise and Shine for America" with the goals of "passionate purpose, increased membership and an improved public image.

VanBuren serves on the board of the Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, the Hudson River Valley Institute at Marist College, Boscobel, and Dutchess Tourism.