Mary supports mission-driven organizations as they grow from start-up to scaled impact—bridging vision with execution. She specializes in building high-performing, values-driven teams and creating workplace cultures that drive retention, accountability, and excellence. As Executive Director of Apple Seeds, a thriving nonprofit she has reimagined, rebuilt, and scaled, she stays grounded in the real operational challenges leaders face. She advises on program design and innovation, translating research into scalable, high-impact programming and designing evidence-based, operationally feasible models. Her work also includes financial forecasting tied to mission growth, fundraising strategy grounded in revenue modeling, and space strategy that aligns environments with outcomes to maximize engagement and effectiveness.
Executive Director, Apple Seeds Inc.
With more than 15 years of executive leadership in the nonprofit sector, I’ve learned to combine visionary strategy with operational rigor. As an Executive Director, I have built and scaled a nonprofit from the ground up—transforming an initial concept into a high-impact, multi-program organization reaching more than 20,000 children annually through evidence-based programming.
My work sits at the intersection of data, design, and human-centered leadership. With a background in biology and a master’s degree in architecture, I approach challenges with both scientific discipline and creative systems thinking—whether leading my own nonprofit or advising the ventures of others. I develop solutions that are not only innovative, but measurable and sustainable. From designing physical environments that enhance program outcomes to building organizations that consistently outperform industry norms, my work translates ideas into tangible, lasting results.
I am known for building high-functioning teams and aligning mission with financial health. I bring deep expertise in budget forecasting, revenue modeling, and diversified fundraising strategies—ensuring organizations are both impactful and resilient. My leadership has also been shaped through community engagement, including service on advisory bodies such as Arkansas Children’s Community Advisory Board.
At Blue Waters, I contribute to a collaborative team with deep experience across executive coaching, human-centered design, and executive-level communication. I bring a unique lens on nonprofit program design, spatial strategy, and culture-driven execution—helping nonprofit leaders not only to plan effectively, but to build environments and systems where people and programs thrive.
