Rita has earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia College in Computer Information Systems. Graduating with a GPA of 3.76/4.0 and maintaining the distinction of being on the Dean's List. Rita continued her education and received a Master of Science from Benedictine University in Management and Organization Behavior with an Emphasis in Organization Development. Graduating with a GPA of 3.95/4.0 and being recognized for her award winning Thesis.

Rita has over 15 years of management experience and has garnered regional and national recognition for her accomplishments in change management.

Rita's public service career started in high school where she volunteered as a reader at the VA Medical Center, North Chicago. Rita then completed a summer of service at St. Therese Medical Center where she volunteered as a Candy Striper. Rita continued her public service career mentoring youths with the Northeastern Illinois Junior Golf Association which later became the First Tee of North Chicago. Rita provided life skill and basic golf instructions to youth from all over Lake County. Rita became a founding member of Citizens Organized for School Board Leadership (COSLA) which led her to running and being elected to the Waukegan Board of Education where she served 2 years as Vice President. Rita was appointed as a Member to the Waukegan Schools Foundation Board and is the Democratic Committeeman for Precinct 395.