Dr. Gabriel earned a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from the University of North Florida, Master of Science in Athletic Training from the University of Kentucky, and Doctor of Philosophy in Health Services Research from Old Dominion University. Prior to obtaining her PhD, Dr. Gabriel was an Associate Athletic Trainer at Webber International University. Dr. Gabriel was an Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Clinical Education at Mercer University for 4 years prior to coming to The University of Kentucky.

Her primary area of research focuses on injury prevention strategies. She created scales to assess attitudes towards participation in injury prevention programs and has developed implementation strategies to improve adherence to injury prevention programs.