Ph.D. in Sociology of the Middle East; Master’s Degree in Ancient Near Eastern Studies; Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Dissertation focused on Palestinian families in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Previously, taught institute and seminary in the Salt Lake area and was Dean of Students at LDS Business College. Served a full-time mission to Toulouse, France. Born and reared in Tremonton, Utah. Married to Paul F. Olson.