Rita joined the Reed Studios teaching staff in August of 2000, and currently teaches approximately 50 students. She has been a private piano instructor in the LaCrosse area since 1986 and has taught music in the LaCrosse area public schools. Rita has accompanied instrumental and vocal soloists in area recitals and competitions. She is a 1990 magna cum laude graduate of Viterbo University in LaCrosse, with degrees in piano performance and music education with emphasis in vocal and choral music.

Rita has held the office of president of the LaCrosse Music Teacher's Association, and currently serves as treasurer of the organization. She is the LaCrosse district chairperson of the WMTA (Wisconsin Music Teachers Association) Auditions in addition to currently serving on the WMTA Executive Board as the State-District AuditionsChair.

Rita has judged both WMTA and WSMA competitions and has received the "Award of Excellence" from WMTA in 1998, 2002, 2004 and 2006. At the 2003 WMTA convention, Rita was awarded "member of the year" for the La Crosse Area Music Teachers Association. She also currently is co-chair of the LaCrosse Symphony Orchestra's Rising Stars Concerto Competition and is the past Director of Music at First Congregational Church in LaCrosse.

During her teenage years, Rita had the opportunity to experience a bit of fame. In 1985, she was crowned Miss T.E.E.N. Wisconsin (Teens Encouraging Excellence Nationally). At the national pageant in Albuquerque, NM, she was a finalist and was awarded the March of Dimes volunteer service award.

In December of 2002, Rita received her national certification from MTNA (Music Teachers National Association). In June of 2002, Rita became the co-owner of Reed Music Studios, and joined David Reedy in partnership.