In 1964 Potter earned a Bachelor of Arts from Rosemont; a Master of Arts from the University of Chicago in 1964; and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Texas in 1975. Prior to coming to Iowa State University, Potter was the Associate Director of the Sophomore Literature Program at the University of Texas from 1973-1977. At Iowa State University, Potter served as an Assistant Professor from 1977-1980, an Associate Professor in English from 1981-1994, and a Professor from 1995-1998. Her major research was in dramatic literature and rhetorical analysis. Potter retired from Iowa State University on December 31, 1998.

Potter was a member of the Modern Language Association, the National Council of Teachers of English, and the Association for Computers and the Humanities.

Potter was active in women's rights and equality movements. She taught Women's Studies classes, organized activities at the Sloss House (Women's Center at Iowa State University), and was an active member in the National Women's Studies Association (NWSA). Potter was also active in organizing a Women's Studies Program at Iowa State University.