Elise, an Asheville native, and has dedicated over 15 years to supporting individuals with Autism through volunteer work, teaching, therapeutic services, and supervisory roles. She earned her undergraduate degree in K–12 Special Education from Western Carolina University, followed by a master’s in Early Childhood Unified Education from the University of Kansas. Elise later completed her BCBA coursework at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Outside of work, she enjoys restoring furniture, relaxing on a porch swing, gardening, and spending time with her Rottweiler, Mack.