Laura McKee has a background in retail management and merchandising. She worked in the field for eighteen years before her career began at U.N.A. She worked with Gap Inc. for twelve years. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising from Louisiana State University. Her Masters of Science, also in Fashion Merchandising was completed at North Dakota State University. Professor McKee created the Shoals Designer Showcase in 2017. This Showcase is a student led fashion show and features work from students and local designers Billy Reid and AL Chanin.