Judy was born and raised in Sacramento, California, where she attended Bishop Manogue High School. Judy is an Alumna of Dominican College of San Rafael, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Movement Education, a developmental approach to academic and physical education.  She continued her education at California the State University of Sacramento, and earned a Master's degree in Special Education. She has credentials in both General Education and Special Education, and a certification as a Resource Specialist in Education. She has been teaching in the public school system since 1987.  Judy is a very active volunteer in several community charity organizations.  She joined the Good Shepherd Community in late Spring 2006 and was ordained to the diaconate on September 16, 2007.