Verdell was born and raised in Inglewood. She attended Morningside High School and West LA College. She was a pregnant teen who maintained her honors status. Her work experience began with LAUSD as a student worker for three years, leading her to Head Start as a family service worker and case manager for 23 years. She then worked as a housing case manager for two years before she joined the Flintridge team as a case manager, bringing her career full circle to the love she has for her community and being able to assist families/individuals become self-sufficient by working through their barriers. Verdell received her Family Development Credential through Cornell University, and is continuing to pursue her studies in criminal justice. She enjoys spending her downtime with her children, grandson, and family, listening to music, reading, and attending church.