Marie was born in Cleveland, Ohio.  She moved at a young age with her family to the Youngstown area where enjoyed her elementary and high school years.  She graduated from Ohio State University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree.  While living in Columbus, Marie worked for Federated Department Stores, first in Buying Services, and then as the Manager of Merchandise Information Systems.  This experience gave Marie the  ability to analyze and develop the best use of current technology to better serve her buyers and sellers.