Dana insists that her call to lead children's music was simple and non dramatic. Music has always been a large part of her life. A former FUMC worship minister called her and explained that he wanted to change the way the children's music ministry was structured. There was a peace she can't describe when she said "yes!" She marvels at how that decision has changed her life.

In September of 2003, God gave her a vision of our youth doing ministry through musical pantomime. After meeting with the youth pastor and sharing that vision, Dana was asked to become the director for the Youth in Ministry Tour. That ministry has evolved into putting on a production that is taken to children's homes around the country. The youth write the program which shares hope for struggling teens. Many of the topics they write about are issues they are or have struggled with. After five months of rehearsals, they "hit the road" in June for a 10 day tour. It is exciting to see our youth ministering to other teens.

Dana feels strongly about teaching children and youth how they can use their God-given talents to honor God. In her time at FUMC, she has expanded our children's music ministry to include drama, dance, art and musical pantomime.

With a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Tulsa, Dana has always found music as a part of her life:
 - Studied voice in Tulsa and Dallas for 14 years
 - Certified as an Orff-Schulwerk methods music teacher
 - Association of Christian Schools International certification
 - Pre-K -2nd Grade music specialist for Carrollton Christian Academy

Dana has been married to Tom Van Steenbergen for 24 years and their two children Kelsey, a senior at Creekview High School, and Wesley, a seventh grader at CCA, are very involved in the church. Their entire family is committed to serving God together at First Church.