We Transform Lives - We don’t Fix People.
SHOW SUMMARY NOTES
“We Transform Lives, We Don't Fix People:” A CEO's Philosophy on Empowerment with Mary Quinn
SUMMARY:
In this episode, Kirsten interviews Mary Quinn, President and CEO of YWCA Greater Harrisburg, shares her journey from government relations to leading an $8 million nonprofit serving 10,000 individuals annually. This powerful conversation explores the evolution of her leadership philosophy through personal tragedy, the difference between seeking feedback versus consensus, and how to maintain mission clarity while addressing complex social issues like human trafficking and domestic violence in our communities.
The conversation highlights some important lessons for leaders, including:
· The journey to soliciting feedback vs needing consensus
· Strength through tragedy
· Staying one layer removed helps leaders lead effectively without being consumed
· Finding your truth north within a broader mission
Mary Quinn BIO:
Mary Quinn is the President and CEO of the YWCA Greater Harrisburg, a 24/7 essential service provider that reaches more than 30,000 individuals each year. In this role, she leads with purpose-driven vision, ensuring the organization delivers high-quality programs while maintaining strong fiscal stewardship.
As the YWCA’s primary spokesperson, Mary represents the organization to the community, board of directors, major donors, and YWCA USA. She oversees strategic planning, organizational operations, and financial management, guiding the YWCA’s mission to create lasting impact in the region.
Mary was named to Central Penn Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2018 and recognized as one of Harrisburg Magazine’s Top Rising Leaders in 2015. She holds a Master of Public Administration and a graduate-level certification in Leadership and Human Resource Management from Penn State University.
Originally from Michigan, Mary has called Harrisburg home for more than 25 years.
For more info on Mary:
1. Leadership Isn't About Consensus - It's About Informed Decision-Making Mary learned that seeking feedback doesn't mean seeking consensus. As a leader, you gather input from your team but ultimately make decisions based on the full picture that only you possess. This clarity prevents the trap of trying to please everyone and builds stronger, more decisive leadership.
2. Personal Crisis Can Forge Leadership Strength When Mary's husband was battling terminal cancer while she was a new CEO, she initially tried to hide the struggle to protect her position. Eventually, her vulnerability with her board led to stronger relationships and mentorship opportunities, teaching her that authentic leadership requires showing up as your full self.
3. Stay One Layer Removed to Lead Effectively In emotionally intensive work environments, Mary learned to position herself strategically - understanding every role through hands-on experience but maintaining enough distance to support her staff rather than getting lost in the direct service work. This prevents vicarious trauma while maintaining credibility and connection.
4. Model the Behavior You Want to See Mary's leadership philosophy centers on never asking staff to do something she wouldn't do herself. From rocking babies in daycare to driving school buses, she demonstrates that authentic leadership means understanding and respecting every role in the organization while maintaining clear boundaries.
5. Go Beyond Mission to Create True North When faced with the vague mission of "eliminating racism and empowering women," Mary led her organization through a process to define their purpose (transforming lives), vision, and core values. This gave staff and community clear guidance on what they do and don't do, preventing mission creep while staying responsive to community needs.
