Patty received a BA in English from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire and an MST in Teaching English as a Second Language from St.  Michael’s College, Vermont. She taught middle and high school students, prior to instructing and managing programs for over 30 years at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She served in various leadership positions, including President of Women in Higher Education, prior to retiring as Coordinator Emerita. Patty and her husband, Patrick, founded and co-owned Holiday Vacations, an Eau Claire travel firm. She has been a long-time enthusiastic supporter of PBS Wisconsin. She has been a great advocate for PBS Wisconsin’s travel opportunities with Holiday Vacations. Patty enjoys traveling, the arts, and has pride for her community and the state. She is frequently in attendance at PBS Wisconsin events.