Nancy DeOta Kiefer was born in Buffalo, New York, to William Frederick Underwood and Mignonne Nancy Underwood, née Kane. She later established her professional life in Illinois, where her interests in counseling, education, and community service developed alongside her clinical work.
Kiefer earned a bachelor’s degree from Elmhurst College in 1979. She completed a Master of Science degree at National College of Education in 1988 and pursued postgraduate studies at Columbia Pacific University from 1990 to 1991, expanding her academic preparation for counseling and consultation.
Since 1973, Kiefer has maintained a private counseling practice serving clients in Chicago and Oak Park, Illinois. In addition to her clinical work, she has acted as a consultant in her field, contributing professional guidance beyond individual practice. From 1983 to 1986, she served as advisor to the Christian Science Organization at Elmhurst College, reflecting her engagement with student and institutional support roles.
She has been an active member of the American Association of University Women, serving on its board of directors from 1989 to 1990 and as its president beginning in 1990. She has also served on the board of directors of the Association of Pupils of Ralph Wagers since 1987 and has been a member of NAFE.
Nancy DeOta Kiefer married Lawrence W. Kiefer Jr., who died in January 1989. She is the mother of two children, Shane Lee and Kali Annual.
