[1][2] She earned a bachelor's degree in sociology (1990) and a Master of Public Administration (1992) from Louisiana State University (LSU).
[2] O'Rourke's dissertation was titled College Students' Epistemological Beliefs: Differences by Domain and Educational Level.
[1] She later worked as a consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton and a career adviser at UNO.
[1] O'Rourke served as the assistant commissioner for academic affairs for the board of regents.
[1] In 2016, O'Rourke became the provost and vice president for academic affairs for the University of Louisiana System.