Cheri graduated from Missouri State University with a double major in psychology and information technology. Born and raised in St Louis, MO, she moved to Seattle in 2001 and now calls Seattle home. Cheri had a 35-year career in the for-profit sector, working for Boeing, Anheuser Busch and Nestle Purina PetCare, recently retiring. She held various roles including trainer, business analyst, team leader and business development manager. Currently she is a math tutor and special ed substitute for Seattle Public Schools. Cheri was an active volunteer with Sahar, supporting education for girls in Afghanistan, leading student education and fundraising at a local elementary school. She was the chair of the Administration & Ministry Board at Queen Anne Christian Church for 11 years.