Pressley is a native Texan, currently based in Austin. She graduated from the University of North Texas with a B.S. in Human Development and Family Science, and an M.S. in Educational Psychology, with a concentration in Family Policy and Program Administration. While pursuing her graduate degree, she began interning at the Foundation to work on the child and family policy team. After interning, she continued her work as a Policy Analyst, focusing on various issues including child welfare, human trafficking, and juvenile justice.