Appearing in her second feature and cover for Red the Luxury Life during “the Month of Love” is especially meaningful to New York author, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, Dena McCoy. She celebrates a February birthday, as well as a special romance that feels like Valentine’s Day every day. “I’m in love with an incredible man who swept me off my feet from the moment we met eight years ago,” she shares. “Steffen captured my heart with his unconditional and steadfast love. Those who know my story, know how much that kind of love means to me.”

Dena first graced the cover of the magazine in 2022 after the publication of her memoir, “Greed & Grace – One Woman’s Faith-Filled Journey to Freedom from Generational Deceit.” Since then, she’s been sharing the gift of grace through her personal experiences. “Voltaire said that ‘writing is the painting of the voice,’ and through unforeseen circumstances, I found my voice rooted in faith, survival, creativity, and love,” she says. Her arduous journey gave her a warrior spirit and authenticity her readers appreciate. “I’m interested in making meaningful human connections that allow others to see a part of themselves through what I bring to the table. What’s most important to me is illuminating people’s inner strength through faith and self-love.”

Dena’s soon-to-be published blog and subsequent online course on utilizing pain for purpose are among projects she’s been developing. “Sharing my personal wisdom, cultivated from challenging circumstances, is how I want to inspire people to navigate life’s unforeseen obstacles. As someone who’s been through some unusually tough experiences, I’ve learned to use faith as a guidepost. That knowledge has drawn me toward wanting to be a part of the solution for others.” She recently finished recording the audiobook version of her memoir, which hits all platforms in early 2025. “Narrating the story in my own voice brings it to life in a powerfully new way and sets the stage for my second book expected later this year. I’ve been eager to get this long-awaited project completed. My fast tempo New York City pace isn’t always aligned with God’s timing. Consequently, I’m learning to be more patient because that’s when I feel there is an anointing on the work. I believe the best of what I have to offer is found in that calling.

” As a fourth-generation Vice President of the 73-year-old family foundation established by her great-grandparents in her home state of Oregon, Dena has experienced the positive community impact of generational philanthropy. Yet, she also sees important giving opportunities in the less obvious. “Sometimes the most meaningful ways of giving originate from letting one’s guard down to authentically share personal life experiences, so people feel less alone and more loved through mutual understanding,” she says.