Una Stroda, a citizen of both Latvia and the USA, studied piano at Latvia Academy of Music, earning BA degree in Piano Performance but then proceeded to earn another BA degree in the field of theology and religious studies from University of Latvia. This passion led her to pursue further degrees first in Geneva, Switzerland, then in Chicago, USA where Una graduated with PhD from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. Her area of study centers around the fascinating and somewhat unconventional subject of the complex and intricate connection between laughter and spirituality, with an emphasis on the role of laughter in both the historical and contemporary context of the Christian church. Una has published several articles and presented at numerous theological conferences around the world. While doing theological research, Una continues her musical pursuits, actively participating in various amateur piano competitions, such as Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Seattle, as well as recitals and performances.