As Mary explains, “The process of working together to create something we cannot do alone and the excitement of these collective ideas and actions taking shape always captures me. I definitely draw personal satisfaction and energy from seeing people thinking and working together [with the collective goal] to make something possible for them, their neighbors, and future generations.”

There are a number of levels behind Mary’s love of community development. At the surface, there is the joy of directly benefiting people through uplifting their surroundings. On a deeper level, Mary serves as an “international ambassador of peace.” She thrives by connecting people from different backgrounds and uniting them in a quest to create vibrant local economies.

This passion continues to guide Mary in her private and professional endeavors. For more on Mary’s story, see her contribution in “Women as Healers: Voices of Vibrancy.”