Gretchen was born in Jacksonville, NC and moved to her home town of Harrisonville, MO when she was 3 years old. There she graduated from high school in 2004.

She is currently attending Northwest Missouri State University. She plans to graduate in the spring of 2008 with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Broadcasting. While at Northwest Gretchen has worked on many shows and projects for KNWT Channel 8, including co-hosting for 3 semesters on Bearcat Update, the station's sport's show, produced the homecoming parade, worked as the station's promotions director for 2 semesters and many other projects. She also helped produce 2 DVD's for the University's yearbook. This summer Gretchen is fulfilling one graduation requirement while interning at St. Joe Now Channel 3.

Although unsure of her path after graduation her time and experiences at St. Joe Now has assured her that reporting the news is her passion. In her free time Gretchen enjoys, spending time with family and friends, reading, taking pictures, scrap-booking, listening to music, and going to concerts.