Dr. Van Wert, an Air Force dependent, had many moves throughout her childhood. She pursued her undergraduate education at the University of Texas where she received a B.A. degree and then attended the University of Texas medical branch in Galveston. Dr. Van Wert then moved to Gainesville for residency in pediatrics at the University of Florida. Dr. Van Wert's husband, John, is a physician specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Orlando. They have two children, Christopher and Alexandra.