Hall of Fame induction: 1998
Denise was a seven time State Champion while competing for Padua Academy from 1977-1980. She established a state record of 10:04.7 in the 3000 meters, which converts to 10:49.2 in today’s 3200 meter run, still first on the Delaware high school all-time list for that event. Denise was State Champion in the 800 meters four times with a best of 2:15.5, and three times in the 1500 meters, with a best of 4:39.0.
She was the National Junior Olympic Champion at 3000 meters in 1980 with a time of 9:37.7. She was selected for the 1980 Prep School Girls All-American track team by Track and Field News.
She later competed for the University of Florida where she was a two time national qualifier in cross country, and ran a best of 17:34 for the 5K cross country race.
She transferred to James Madison University and continued her distance domination by winning the ECAC cross country championship. Her 3000 meter and 2 mile times at JMU remain as school records.