Graduated from Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, Virginia in 1972. Attended the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana on an ROTC scholarship, graduating with a B.B.A. in management in 1976. Served active duty with the U.S. Army from 1976-1981. While on active duty, took night classes and received an MBA from Boston University in 1980. Received a M.A./J.D. in 1989 from Regent University under a joint degree program. During his studies, interned under Congressman Jerry Lewis (R-California).