Dena has spent her educational career in Arkansas Public Schools. With 24 years in the field, a decade of that time as an administrator, she has learned a great deal through her experiences. One of which is the realization that this journey is not just about teaching; it is about mentoring future leaders and fostering a collaborative environment for growth.

One of the biggest highlights of Dena's career was the opportunity to work with the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) as a partner school. This collaboration focused on improving teaching practices and student outcomes. Through this partnership, she experienced significant personal growth and saw the positive impact of effective teaching strategies on students. Being part of a network that prioritizes professional growth for student achievement allowed her to refine their leadership skills and share valuable insights with other educators.

Outside of her work schedule, she values time spent with family and friends, particularly at the lake. She enjoys boating, swimming, and laughing in the sunshine!