Marcia Dente has lived and worked in Paterson, NJ for much of her life, and many of her endeavors have revolved around protecting and celebrating the Great Falls. In 1971, she collaborated with the Mayor's wife to establish the Great Falls Festival. She was the Supervisor of Accounts for the Department of Public Works for the city of Paterson (1977-2005), and during that time, and since then, she has been involved in many local events, including preservation efforts.