in Asian Studies from the School of International Service at American University in Washington, D.C. in 1967.

Prior to joining the U.S. Foreign Service, she began her career with the Department of Commerce working on Japan, Korea, and the Pacific Islands.

She served as Office Director for Thailand and Burmese Affairs in the Department of State.

From 1991 to 1994, she was Chargé d'affaires ad interim and Deputy Chief of Mission of the American Embassy in Rabat, Morocco.

A graduate of the National War College Class of 1988, she is a recipient of the Department of State's Superior and Meritorious Honor Awards.