Rita is a lifelong resident of the Waukegan – North Chicago area and is a graduate from Waukegan West High School.

She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia College in Computer Information System, a Master in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Management and Organization Behavior with an Emphasis in Organization Development, both from Benedictine University.

Rita has over 20 years in public service dating back to high school where she first volunteered as a reader at the VA Medical Center, North Chicago.

She currently serves on several boards and in leadership positions for multiple community service organizations. Rita previously served as Vice President of the Waukegan Board of Education and is currently serving the community as the First African American Female elected to the position of 60th District State Representative.