Dennis and June welcomed Melanie Renee into the world on November 9, 1980.
Melanie grew up in Falls Church, VA. Her family, which include her younger brothers, Dave and John, raised Mel in the Catholic faith and in a Christian, charismatic group called People of Praise.
Mel was homeschooled for 4 years, during which time she went on so many camping adventures with the Girl Scouts. Much of her creative spirit comes from girl scouting, years of ballet, flute lessons, drama and arts & crafts classes. Her family was always supportive of giving me those opportunities.
Melanie went to Bishop O'Connell High School in Arlington and graduated in '99. So many wonderful friends and fond memories were made in these years. Her love for music was really formed there. She played flute for the first two years, and then got bored, so she switched to bassoon. She was also heavily involved in drama, and participated in all of the plays. She was also involved in several Youth Groups throughout these years, which really formed the beginnings of her Faith.
Mel attended Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame, IN. All 4 years in South Bend, she was dedicated to People of Praise and Campus Fellowship. For 3 years she was so blessed to be in the Band of the Fighting Irish, playing the piccolo. She was also a Resident Advisor at SMC for 2 years. In May, 2003, she left with a double major in English Literature and Writing.
Post-undergrad, she taught for a year at Saint Michael's Elementary as a computer teacher while living in household through People of Praise. Fall 2004 was the beginning of a 2-year race for the Master's. This past May she graduated with a Master's in Teaching English Literature and Writing.
She now live in Fairfax and teach English as an adjunct professor at Northern Virginia Community College. When not working, she is involved in the growing community of Women's Youth Apostles. Mark and Mel continue to enjoy each other's company, grow spiritually and go on fun adventures. We really look forward to the Sacrament of Matrimony.