Marissa grew up in a household where Greek was spoken between her parents and grandparents. Although she never learned to speak Greek, she has enjoyed learning about languages and people from different cultures as long as she can remember. She has an MA from Portland State University in teaching English as a second language and taught immigrants and international students for over 25 years. In addition, she had a stained glass business for 20 years traveling to different western states to sell her work in juried art shows. Now her creativity is expressed in ornamental and vegetable gardening. Her other passions include hiking, kayaking, contra dancing, pickleball, and traveling the world. Some of the volunteer work she enjoys includes being a conversation partner and leading conversation circles at CMLC.