DeMesme has come a long way in her climb to the top with each rung of the ladder being achieved through dedication, devotion, and determination. Whether in an academic environment where she excelled as an undergraduate (St. Augustine College, magna cum laude graduating #1 in 1969), or when being a professional staffer for U.S.Sen. John Glenn in Washington, D.C., (from 1989 through 1990),or while attending the Brookings Institutue in 1996; DeMesme stayed focused on her belief in herself and her ability to achieve her goals.

Her career has been marked by an extensive repertoire that includes positions in teaching, social work, management and manpower analyst, and human resources management professions. Before joining the federal workforce, she gained recognition as an expert on child abuse, spouse abuse and adolescent programs as an administrator in North Carolina.  She began her civil service career in 1980 directing the Mainz Army Depot's management and personnel divisions. In 1991 she began work with the Air Force as the assistant deputy secretary for morale, welfare, recreation and services and health affairs. Not surprisingly, DeMesme believes education and training combined with hard work are the keys to success.