[3] Ten years after high school Crawford began taking college classes at night while also working in the banking industry during the day,[3] eventually earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Missouri State University in 1995.
[3] When not involved with her legislative duties in Jefferson City, Crawford assists her husband John in running their livestock production operation (beef cattle).
Previously her involvement in politics consisted of serving as Chairperson of the Dallas County (Missouri) Republican Central Committee.
In the August, 2012 Republican primary Crawford faced off with Randy Angst, who had represented the 146th District prior to the redrawn boundaries.
[8] Soon after 97th General Assembly began their first session, Representative Crawford was elected to serve as House Majority Whip by fellow Republicans.