Hi, I’m Mary. My life’s work has always been about people—teaching, learning, and building communities where everyone has a voice. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: classroom teacher, school administrator, director of a program for pregnant and parenting teens, professor at Purdue, and even a policy scholar in Washington, D.C. My passion has always been helping young people and communities thrive, whether through substance abuse prevention, juvenile justice programs, or sexual violence prevention. That work eventually grew into the CARe Model, which brought together teachers, social service providers, universities, and even artists and theater groups to make real change.

I’ve also had the chance to do research and advocacy internationally, from Afghanistan to Kenya, and closer to home through women’s rights organizations I helped start. These days, my focus has shifted into creative work—as an artist, photographer, and writer. My art carries forward the same mission I’ve always had: to share the stories of women, children, families, and communities, and to lift up their voices in ways that inspire connection and change.

Come and join me in contemplating the art of play.