Both have degrees: Emily Pitts and Daman Essert, who were married a year ago, both have graduated from college with advanced degrees.

Daman Essert, who received a master of education educational leadership degree from Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, is presently a teacher.

His wife, Emily, has received a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Pennsylvania. She is a resident at St. Petersburg General Hospital for Family Practice.

Daman and Emily live in Bradenton, Fla., and he drives to Cape Coral where he teaches. He is a graduate of Lehigh senior High School. He is the son of Kristine Essert-Nicks of Lakeland and the late Richard E. Essert of Lehigh Acres, who died in 2001. His grandfather is Richard Essert of Lehigh Acres.