Lea graduated from Sacramento State University in 2011 with a degree in Nutrition and is one of the most decorated athletes in school history. She is also considered to be "the greatest 800-meter runner in Big Sky history," ranking No. 11 on the Big Sky Conference's list of "25 Greatest Female Athletes." Lea was the recipient of the Big Sky Conference’s prestigious scholar-athlete award and went on to compete as a professional athlete for Nike Track and Field through two Olympic cycles setting an American Record with her relay team. Raised as a foster child, her path to success would never have been imagined as it occurred. Her story is one of inspiration, surprise and success that continues today.