Carolyn J. Rasmus is a teacher by training. Born and raised in Ohio, she has taught on Long Island, New York; at Iowa State University; and at Brigham Young University, where she became acquainted with and joined the Church. After receiving her doctorate degree at Brigham Young University, she became a full professor and also served as administrative assistant to presidents Dallin H. Oaks and Jeffrey R. Holland. She served in a similar position to the Young Women general presidency. She concluded her professional career teaching at the Orem Institute of Religion.