Start Date: January 2023

What she does at Book Harvest: Building Book Harvest’s advocacy and policy portfolio as the organization expands its work and seeks to strengthen its impact. This includes identifying policy advocacy and research priorities that align with Book Harvest’s goals and uplift parent and community voices, overseeing the design and implementation of campaigns, furthering coalitions, and continuing our role as a strong collaborative partner.

Favorite Children’s Book: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

Likes & Loves: Mary enjoys being with her people, getting outside for a walk or to the gym, creating art and appreciating beauty (of all sorts), reading, traveling, and gardening.

Community Involvement: Several state initiatives and community groups that are committed to things she cares about. She serves on the Board of Directors at Reality Ministries.

Education: Master of Science in Public Health focused on Maternal and Child Health from UNC-Chapel Hill; Bachelor of Health Sciences in Occupational Therapy and Bachelor of Arts and Science from McMaster University. Additional training in various areas.

Experience: Several years of experience in state and local nonprofits, schools, research, and community settings – all focused on improving opportunities for children and families, particularly in early childhood. Also, time spent listening to and learning from youth, parents, community leaders, partners and colleagues.

What are you hopeful for in the future? A more just and loving world where all children have the opportunity to be their best selves, regardless of where they live or the color of their skin.