Denise first fell in love with the Land O’Lakes area during her inaugural visit to Black Oak Lake in 1974. After raising her family in Geneva, Illinois, she embraced the opportunity in 2016 to return north and serve the Watersmeet/Land O’Lakes community as the Education and Outreach Coordinator for the ISCCW. Following her retirement from that role, she continued her commitment by volunteering as the organization’s President for three years.

She holds an associate degree in Dental Hygiene as well as an Associate of Applied Science in Horticulture, specializing in sustainable landscaping—fields in which she has worked throughout her career.

A dedicated community volunteer, Denise has contributed her time and leadership to numerous boards and committees, including the Land O’Lakes Community Garden, CCROA Board, SISU Ski Fest in Ironwood, The Musky Expo, and the “Before I Die” Project. She is currently leading the newly established Watersmeet Beautification Committee.

Denise believes strongly that giving our time is the most meaningful way to create lasting change and growth. She feels that LOLA enriches the region immeasurably by fostering creativity, connection, and a sense of belonging within the broader arts community.