Valerie graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in occupational therapy. In conjunction with her master’s degree, she received a Certificate in Gerontology. She received her certification in hand therapy (CHT) from the Hand Therapy Certification Commission in 1991.

Upon graduation, Valerie practiced in South Carolina and then returned to Florida with experiences in-home healthcare and outpatient orthopaedics focused on the hand and upper extremity.

Valerie is a Vero Beach native, and in her free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, and spending time with her family.