We’re delighted to welcome Mary Kate Chapman as our new Senior Director – Programs. Mary Kate’s twenty-five-plus years of passion for nonprofit leadership in community development, volunteer coordination, and hands-on leadership training make her the perfect partner as we continue to Educate. Equip. Engage.® the next generation of Gwinnett leaders. Her deep roots in our alumni family and her knack for crafting meaningful learning experiences promise to bring fresh energy and new possibilities to every session. Please join us in extending a big Leadership Gwinnett hello to Mary Kate!
Q&A: Getting to Know Mary Kate
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What excites you most about stepping into the Senior Director – Programs role?
- I have a heart for Leadership Gwinnett, and I’ve been involved in some capacity for almost ten years (Glance in 2016, LG in 2018, Leadership in the Moment in 2021, Health & Human Services Learning Day Co-Chair from 2020 – 2023, and a Tri-Chair in 2024/2025). I look forward to working even closer with the fine folks who make Gwinnett the great county it is! My background is in event and volunteer management, training, and development, so this feels like the perfect fit!
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What’s your favorite memory from your time in Leadership Gwinnett?
- There are SO many! Some of my closest relationships are a result of LG. The thing I cherish most (and see over and over again) is witnessing volunteers come together to create exceptional learning opportunities and experiences for participants that are meaningful, creative, and just an absolute blast.
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In one sentence, how would you describe your leadership style?
- I’ve been in the “leadership” space since I was 17, and I’m constantly seeking new ways to connect with staff, volunteers, and the community. One thing I recognize, more now than ever, is that each decision we make impacts the trajectory of the rest of our lives: “Every passing minute is another chance to turn it all around.” – Vanilla Sky
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What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
- I love otters… maybe too much. A personal goal I have is to one day go to an otter habitat and spend the day loving on those little babies as much as I can. Holding their little paws? Yes, please.
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What’s one thing you hope every participant takes away from their time with us?
- The understanding that their voices matter. They matter. They are the change we want (and need) to see in the world.
We are thrilled to welcome Mary Kate Chapman to her new role. Her vision and energy will help us expand our impact and deliver exceptional learning experiences. Learn more about Mary Kate’s background and her plans for Leadership Gwinnett on her full bio page:
Join us in welcoming Mary Kate by leaving a comment below!
