Born and raised in a small town in western New York, Gina spent her childhood steeped in nature. Her father built their family home in the middle of the woods, providing her with endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. She spent her days climbing trees, hiking and encountering wildlife. The family’s proximity to Lake Ontario also allowed for frequent beach visits. Gina earned a BA in English from the University of Buffalo and an MA in Education from Mercy College near New York City. She devoted her early career to publishing, culminating in a position at Penguin Random House. After a decade, she changed course and went into teaching…in Madrid, Spain! There she taught English for four years before returning to the United States and settling in Denver where she discovered a talent for numbers while working in accounts payable and receivable. This newfound interest led her to pursue a BA in Business Administration with a focus on accounting from Western Governor’s University. Outside of work, Gina spends as much time as possible in the mountains west of Denver. She also enjoys painting, drawing, reading, cooking and hosting dinner parties.