Mary Contreras

Q: In today’s busy world, tell us one thing you do on a regular basis to ensure ‘self-care’.

A: I visit my physician annually. Having lost my mother to a heart aneurysm so early in her life, my sisters and I are vigilant about regular checkups.

Each of us have a gift of life and must do all we can to protect and cherish it. I really listen to and learn from the ‘science’ of my check-ups because I know they aid future decisions about my personal health. That’s a good thing!

Q: Tell us about a leadership trait that you possess and why you think it’s important.

A: Empathy & Creativity are the two leadership traits that have pulled me through the years as a female executive and business owner in an ever changing business landscape.

Empathy in helping others where they are is my true passion. It’s what I do at my very core. I strive to help others be successful, protect their families and make their dreams come true. I’m so fortunate that I get to do that with my creativity and knowledge. Whether they are employees of my company or our precious, valued customers, every interaction is filled with possibilities and impact for their positive future.

To share how I love to impact as a leader in our community, I am joined by another business owner and Women United member, Adrienne Bryant. She and I are working with other business leaders to collect new toys for a Title 1 School, Hartford Elementary. After having attended a Women United event, we realized that many of these children had nothing under the tree. We thought, a simple ask can fix that! A new, unwrapped $10 toy delivered our office before Dec 8th will be much appreciated and sure to bring a smile to a young soul. Contact me to help at mary.contreras.gpdf@statefarm.com!

Q: What does ‘Sisterhood’ mean to you?

A: Understanding one another. Sisters do that. We have each other’s best interest at heart. I am lucky to have two sisters by family and several who are the dearest of friends. They get you, they bring you joy, they share your interests, and they lift you up. When times are difficult they are the rock that makes life worth living. When life is great they are the joy of celebration.

Q: Why does Philanthropy matter?

A: There are too many needs in this world and not enough kindness to go around. Just imagine: what if 10% more people took the opportunity to give? We would have less homeless on the street, fewer hungry children at schools, and our world might be more peaceful. My dream is to inspire others to give. Philanthropy matters because we can leave our world in a better state if we are determined…to make it so. It takes a giving spirit.

Q: Tell us something that most people wouldn’t know about you.

A: My grandmother was my 4^th grade teacher! The year I was in her class it was difficult in many ways as she was a strict disciplinarian. I had to promise never to call her the “G” word during class. Her expectation of me was nothing but “A”s, so she poured on the homework. I loved that year and her stories.

Q: What makes you laugh out loud?

A: Goofy kids, silly jokes, and sweet friends. Thank you all.