A native New Yorker, DawnMarie Vihrachoff was raised in Florida, where she got an early start in politics as an intern in the office of her local congresswoman. DawnMarie earned her bachelor's degree in political science at Florida State University, and served as an organizer for Planned Parenthood during her college years. After graduation, she worked as a legislative aide for the Florida House of Representatives. The oldest of seven children, DawnMarie's leadership style (forthwright, funny, and, according to her siblings, "bossy") has served her well in her extensive volunteer work. She has dedicated her time to such organizations as NOW, local homeless and hunger assistance charities, and her faith-based community. DMV (as her family and friends call her) is a fairly new Minnesotan, and is excited about exploring the state's hiking and canoe trails and getting involved in Minnesota's progressive movement.