• Ph.D., 1989. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO Biology (Mycology);

    • Dissertation: The effects of VA mycorrhizal colonization on concentrations of phosphorus and nitrogen in grasses.

  •  M.S. 1982. Frostburg State University, Frostburg, MD Biology;

    • Thesis: Invertebrates as vectors of endomycorrhizae and Rhizobium upon surface mine soils.

  •  B.S. 1977. Frostburg State University, Frostburg, MD  Biology and Psychology dual major.