Erlinda was born and raised in Albania, where she graduated college with a degree in teaching. She later moved to Athens, Greece, where she completed her postgraduate studies on kids with learning disabilities. When she came to the USA, she studied nursing, which she has been practicing for 18 years now. She raised two children in public education, both of whom are currently successfully pursuing careers in academia. Erlinda believes that education is the key to improving any community and her goal is to keep students healthy, so they can focus on succeeding in school.  Erlinda is passionate about the environment, equality, literacy, and wellness — and she loves to travel.