Denise Pocta Wilkinson

My Personal Page

Chapter 1 - The Beginning

I was born in 1960 to Frank and Gladys Pocta.  I was privileged  to grow up in a large family - two brothers and two sisters.  We moved around a lot (Maryland, New Jersey and Tennessee) which gave me the opportunity to meet lots of friends, while building character and becoming a stronger person (although I didn't understand this at the time).

Before...

Now...

Chapter 2 - The Career

Although I chose to major in computer science in college, I believe that I always wanted to be a teacher. I should have known that this was my natural calling.  (Even when I was young and playing school with all of my brothers and sisters, it was I  who played the part of the teacher.)   Eventually, the big picture became clearer to me and I finished my degree to fulfill my dream.  I taught at Middle Tennessee State University and then Prestonsburg Community College in Kentucky.  Finally, I ended up in Virginia Beach in 1987, where I have been teaching mathematics at Virginia Wesleyan College ever since.  

Chapter 3 - My Family

I have been single for most of my life.  This was a struggle at times because I always wanted a family of my own.  Now looking back, I realize that so many years on my own allowed me to travel, complete another degree and become a stronger individual.  However, in 1993 I did meet Dave.  We took things slow and married in 1995.  Because this was both of our first marriages at a fairly mature age, we diligently began working on a family of our own.  After two years of a roller coaster ride with infertility, we were finally blessed with Brooke. 

Chapter 4 - My Interests

I haven't considered myself as having a creative hobby until recently.  Several years ago, I joined the Crafter's group at my church.  We create items to sell at the Old Donation Church Oyster Roast each fall.  I also have become interested in "stamping" to create cards for friends and family.   I think my long time hobby has always been exercise.  My day doesn't seem complete without it.   My method of exercise has changed through the years.  I was an avid tennis player and loved aerobics (from impact, non-impact, to step).  Now you can find me walking on campus, in my neighborhood or around the Batten Center track. You may also find me in the fitness room on the stair climber.  However, my biggest past time is being a mom, which I love dearly.

Chapter 5 - The Future

As most folks know, Virginia Wesleyan is my extended family.  I thoroughly enjoy being part of the VWC community and hope to see Brooke as a student here one day.