|
|
|
 |
 |
Raised in a Working Class Family
Maria is
the younger of two children born on April 23, 1969 to John and
Patricia Granger, and she was raised in a working class family.
Her father was a proud member of the United Auto Workers for 24
years. He is retired from Duke Energy where he worked for more
than 20 years and was a longtime member of the International
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Her mother was the first in her family to
graduate college receiving a degree in accounting. She worked over 20
years at the U.S. Post Office and was a longtime member and President of
her local United Postal Workers. She later retired from Crane
Naval Weapons Center.
Maria chose Floyd County as her home after graduating law school.
It is where she has built her career serving the people of Floyd
County. It is where she volunteers countless hours to supporting
her community. Maria is married to Steve Mennemeyer, the eldest son
of five children of Junior “Juni” and Marilyn Mennemeyer. Her
father-in-law retired from Commonwealth Life Insurance Company in
1990 after 20 years of service as an insurance agent. Her
mother-in-law retired in 1998 after 20 years of service at Ford
Motor Company and as a proud member of the United Auto Workers.
Maria lives in New Albany with her husband Steve and youngest of
three children, son Drake who is in the 8th grade. Their
daughter Sarah is a nursing student, and eldest son, Steven
courageously gave his life on August 8, 2006 fighting for our
freedom in the Iraq war. Steven’s strength lives on in their
grandson Andrew who is in the 3rd grade.
|
|
|
Interested in Leadership at an Early Age
Maria
demonstrated interest in leadership at an early age participating in
classes for gifted and talented children during elementary school. As a high school
sophomore, she was chosen by faculty and administration to represent
her high school at youth leadership seminar. Maria advanced her
leadership skills as a student council and class officer throughout
her high school years. |
|
|
Participated In Sports
In
addition to leadership activities, Maria participated in sports
including track, volleyball, gymnastics and competitive
cheerleading. She saved
money for college babysitting and working at a fast food restaurant,
grocery store, and retail store. |
|
|
Performed Music for the Community
Maria
performed for community events, weddings, school musicals, church
services, and nursing homes throughout Southern Indiana as well as
her high school graduation and awards ceremonies.
Her love of music and performing began at age six with her study of
classical piano. She began studying voice at age twelve. Maria
competed at state piano and vocal competitions and received top
recognition. She was featured as "Mistress of the House" in the
popular Madrigal singing group. Maria was honored by her high school classmates as the choral queen and
selected by her student body and faculty to receive the Arion award
for musical excellence. |
|
