Emily was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from the Sidwell Friends School in 1984, and from The College of William and Mary with a B.A. in Elementary Education in 1988.

She is married to Mark and they have three children: Sarah, Rachel and David.

Emily taught in Henrico Public Schools for 7 years and is currently the Assistant Director of West End Montessori School. She also teaches Music Together®, a music and movement program for infants through entering kindergarteners and their parents. Emily has been the Director of Vacation Bible School, taught Sunday School, and is a children's choir leader for the Pre-K class. In 2005 she became one of the two Co-Directors of Children's Ministries here at Second.