For Denise Manukian Marchitto, being named Queen of the 2011 German-American Steuben Parade Court was more than just an honor — it was the continuation of a lifelong connection to her German heritage and a celebration of the traditions that have shaped her family for generations.

Raised in a deeply proud German-American household, Denise’s connection to Germany began at home. With both of her parents originating directly from Germany, her upbringing was immersed in language, culture, and tradition. Her mother worked tirelessly to preserve those customs, ensuring Denise could read, write, and speak German fluently so she could remain close to family overseas and connected to her roots.

“Becoming the Queen of the parade was a natural bucket list item,” Denise shared. “The Germans have contributed so much to America and the world as a whole, and I am extremely honored to be a part of this culture.”

As Queen in 2011, Denise had the opportunity to represent the parade during a memorable year led by Grand Marshal Erik Bettermann. One of the greatest highlights of her reign was discovering the broader German-American community throughout the New York area.

“Going to all the various functions around the area that I hadn’t been familiar with and meeting so many wonderful, proud German-Americans was incredible,” she recalled. “And flying to Germany for Karneval in my home city of Cologne was unforgettable.”

Her love for Cologne remains strong to this day. In fact, if she could design a parade float herself, it would be centered entirely around the city she calls her favorite in the world.

While Denise entered the role already confident and outgoing, her time on the court strengthened her ability to speak publicly and lead with poise.

“This experience taught me to become confident speaking at large events and staying calm throughout it all,” she said.

Today, Denise works as an Executive Director of Client Business Leadership at a media agency while also balancing life as a mother of two young children. Though family life has understandably made it harder to stay deeply involved with the Parade Committee in recent years, her connection to the organization and her heritage remains strong.

And nowhere is that more evident than in the traditions she continues to practice at home.

“We practice all of them,” Denise said with a smile.

From Advent calendars and St. Nicholas Day celebrations to Christmas Eve customs and beautifully decorated Easter trees, German traditions are woven into daily life in the Marchitto household. She regularly bakes Zopf, the traditional sweet bread, and makes trips out to Long Island for authentic German deli meats, spreads, and baked goods that remind her family of home.

Most importantly, Denise is now passing those traditions on to the next generation.

“I have two small children who I can’t wait to get more involved in the German culture,” she shared. “We’ve already been to Germany with them and they love it there just as much as we do.”

When asked what advice she would give to future courts, Denise emphasized authenticity and responsibility.

“Enjoy every minute of it and stay genuine,” she said. “The goal is to continue inspiring future generations to keep these traditions alive. The older generations will soon be handing the baton over to us, and it is our duty and honor to take it forward.”

And while her reign may have ended 15 years ago, Denise still remembers one funny milestone that came immediately afterward:

“As soon as my reign as Queen was over, I couldn’t wait to cut my hair super short because I didn’t have to worry about how the crown would look!”

Through her pride, warmth, and dedication to preserving German culture within her own family, Denise represents exactly what the German-American Steuben Parade has celebrated for generations — heritage carried proudly into the future.