I am a Durham, North Carolina native who has a real love for people and education! I received my bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State University (Go Wolfpack!) in 2008. In May 2009, I married my high school sweetheart, Tyler Strayhorn, and went to work at BASF doing agricultural research.

However, my long-term goals were not to stay at a large corporation. After watching my dad successfully run his own mortgage company for almost 30 years, I developed a love for small business and a desire to one day pursue starting a company of my own. My dad was always an inspiration to me in the way he treated his customers and how he used his work as a means to give back to his community both inside and outside of the office. I, too, wanted the flexibility to be able to serve in that same capacity.

I was also taught at a very young age the importance of economics education, and was a benefactor of one of my dad’s courses taught at the private school that I attended. Along with my father, I recognized the need for quality economics education, and saw a solution in online learning. Together, we decided to build Higher Rock, beginning in January 2011. I thoroughly enjoy my time at Higher Rock, and am excited to be a part of something that I truly believe will enhance the lives of others.

My passions in life include loving and serving Jesus Christ, teaching 3- to 4-year-olds at my church, riding horses, sewing and quilting, and hiking in the mountains of NC with my husband and our dog, Lila.