Shirley Marie Joiner obtained a doctor degree in the department of curriculum and instruction at Texas A&M University. She taught one year as visiting assistant professor in the department of communicative arts and sciences where she conducted research for her dissertation at Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, New Mexico. In 1984, Shirley earned her Master of Science in interdisciplinary studies in speech communication, radio/television/film and education from the University of North Texas, Denton, Texas. She completed her Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences in public relations with minor in administrative services in 1977 at Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas.