My education began in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I graduated in 1970 from Waukesha South High School (then the only high school). I lived in Waukesha about 18 years. 

Then after a few years at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls I moved to Boulder, Colorado. After a few classes at the University of Colorado over a number of years, I received my undergraduate degree in Business Administration – Accounting, with honors, at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater (one of the largest business schools in the midwest).

Upon completing my undergraduate study in Wisconsin I moved back to Boulder, Colorado. About a year after moving back I entered the graduate program in Taxation at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. During the pursuit of my graduate degree I had the opportunity to teach undergraduate principles of accounting. Teaching was an unexpected benefit. I really enjoyed the experience. I completed my graduate degree August 1991 – Master of Science – Taxation.