Growing up in the Boston area, Mrs. Dunford graduated from Simmons College with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and moved to northern Virginia, where she met her husband, Joe Dunford. They have been married for over 30 years, through 18+ moves, six states, three children and numerous deployments in peacetime and war.

For almost 30 years she was a practicing physical therapist, first in trauma and acute care, followed by the majority of her time in pediatric care. The practice gave Mrs. Dunford much insight into issues facing EFMP families, children with educational special needs, and Wounded Warriors.

Mrs. Dunford enjoys running and exercise, reading (never enough time), volunteering, and sewing. Her volunteer efforts with the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Leadership Education Seminar, and various spouse clubs and Family Readiness Programs have been a source of enjoyment and brought her great pride in the many talents of military spouses. Mrs. Dunford considers it a privilege to have watched Family Readiness Programs morph from non-existent, to spouse/volunteer-run, to a professional organization with extensive training and management.

Along with raising her family, she considers connecting with and caring for military families as one of the most important roles in her life.