Heather earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Exercise with a minor in Chemistry from Virginia Tech, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.

She received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from VCU in 2010. She received her Board Certification as a Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy (OCS) from the American Physical Therapy Association in 2013 and recertified in 2023.

Heather grew up in Western Albemarle in the Crozet area and graduated from Western Albemarle High School. She married her long time friend and fellow Crozet native Michael Walton in 2013. They are raising their daughter Emma in their hometown. She enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and kayaking.