Founder & President

Christopher Byrne is the Founder and President of DC Social Collective (DSC), which he launched in May 2021 in response to a growing need for authentic connection during the COVID pandemic. With a background in marketing, communications, and event production, Christopher has grown DSC into one of the region’s most dynamic communities for young adults, hosting premier events across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

As President, Christopher leads all aspects of the organization—from curating unforgettable events to managing marketing, partnerships, fundraising, and brand strategy. His work includes coordinating with venues, sponsors, and volunteers, as well as overseeing DSC’s social media presence and public engagement.

Christopher’s bold vision, magnetic personality, and bulletproof confidence have made him a driving force behind DSC’s rapid growth. His ability to blend strategy with style creates spaces where young professionals can build community, celebrate life, and dance under the stars.

Event Planner & Coordination Affiliate

Margaret Knapp is a Catholic musician and from Leesburg, VA.

Margaret began her involvement with DC Social Collective shortly after its inception as a volunteer. She has previously been featured as a headlining artist for many of DSC’s largest annual events.

After learning more about DSC’s mission, Margaret was inspired to serve our community by becoming affiliated as an Event Planner & Coordinator. With her passion and drive for building authentic community, she has worked with founder Chris Byrne, our DSC partners, and volunteers to help provide a standard of excellence across all aspects of DSC’s event planning process for the last 3 years.

Event Coordinator

Barrows, a blacksmith and business owner based in Woodbine MD, quickly found his passion to volunteer for DSC at our very first picnic happy hours in May 2021. He’s been with our group since day 1.

He is responsible for door ticket sales and assisting with event management.

As a former young adult leader in the Arlington Diocese, Nic has dedicated his spare time to give back and help our young adult community thrive and succeed.

Brand Ambassador

Ashley Melton became a DC Social Collective (DSC) Brand Ambassador in 2025, drawn to its mission of bringing young adults together through faith-based and social events across the DMV. She first met DSC founder Chris Byrne at George Mason University while working as a video editor for Mason Cable Network. Years later, Chris won a free social media management giveaway Ashley hosted—an unexpected connection that led to her photographing DSC events and ultimately joining the team.

As a social media marketer, photographer, content creator and founder of a creative agency, Ashley supports DSC by promoting events, creating content, and amplifying the brand’s message. Her experience spans social media campaigns, website strategy, and in-person activations for health, wellness, non-profits and faith-based organizations.

Ashley’s creative vision and marketing expertise help elevate DSC’s events, making each one more engaging, inclusive, and impactful for the community. Her goal is to help others feel seen, celebrated, and inspired—just as she did when she first connected with the community.

Brand Ambassador

John Jennings became a DC Social Collective (DSC) brand ambassador in 2024, eager to connect young professionals through vibrant events across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With a background in political campaign management and strategic communications, he brings leadership and community-building skills to amplify DSC’s mission.

As a brand ambassador, John promotes DSC’s events, from mixers to charity galas, using his event coordination and stakeholder engagement expertise. His experience working with the president and other high level individuals ensures impactful promotion and seamless event execution.

John’s dynamic leadership and relationship-building skills make him a key asset to DSC. His energy and strategic approach strengthen DSC’s community, delivering memorable experiences throughout the DMV region.

Brand Ambassador

Riley Park became a DC Social Collective (DSC) brand ambassador in June 2025 after attending his third event, the Summer Soirée. With a background in education, linguistics, travel, and project management, he brings a dynamic blend of charisma, leadership, and cultural fluency to the DSC community.

As an ambassador, he’s passionate about creating spaces where young adults can step out of their comfort zones, connect meaningfully, and thrive socially. His experience as an educator working with diverse students and colleagues allows him to relate to a wide audience and foster inclusive, engaging environments.

Known for his extroverted energy, multilingual skills, and love for music and dancing, Riley brings both vision and vibrancy to every event. His goal is to help others experience the same joy and connection that first drew him to DSC.