Denise Challita has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Information Systems from the University of Dayton. She designed and developed software at Lockheed Martin IMS for many complex municipal communication and transportation systems until 1999, when she decided to devote herself to raising her three children. Although Denise stepped out of the traditional workplace, she continued to dedicate herself to philanthropy work. She has spearheaded fundraising campaigns for the French American School of New York and the St. John Paul II Church. In addition, She has worked hands-on with the Independent Residences organization, receiving the Dreams into Reality™ Award for her work to help improve the lives of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families.