Profile in Philanthropy: Mary Ann Littler, Vice Chair
Meet Mary Ann Littler, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees
Mary Ann Littler joined the WFCO board of trustees in 2023 and is vice chair from April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025. She is the CEO of Peak to Peak Business Strategies and lives in Arvada with her husband Dave. A PEP member since 2014, Mary Ann co-chaired the Annual Luncheon in 2018.
Tell us something not many people know about you?
I have traveled to 63 countries through my career and through personal vacations. I also teach leadership skills to hospital clinics in Peru – Iquitos on the Amazon River and at Clinica Americana in Juliaca in the southern Peruvian Andes.
Why is supporting women a top priority for you?
I grew up in a family of five girls and watched one of my sisters struggle as a young mother. Resources were not available as they are today, and without family, her outcome would have been much different. Every girl and adult woman needs to have support to help her thrive and succeed. Whatever I can do to help support women and girls is my passion.
What is your vision of equity for women in Colorado?
Every woman should be able to pursue her dream, compete equally for jobs, and be paid the same wage as their male counterparts. And women should be ensured equitable opportunities as they compete, earn promotions, and strive to be at the top of their profession. Resources in all forms – education, business loans, child care, direct assistance – need to be available and timely. I am also an advocate for health equity and want to see everyone with access to high quality, affordable healthcare.
What other philanthropic passions do you have?
Quality healthcare for all and higher education for all who want it.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue women and families are facing in Colorado?
There are so many obstacles for women so I would zero in on affordable child care. We need quality child care that is affordable so women can work, pursue careers, and know that their precious children are well cared for.
Who have been the leaders/mentors on your journey?
One of my former leaders – Dana Dunn, executive VP at Lucent Technologies – showed me you can have it all. She had a family, home, and a great executive job. And she did it with style and grace. I also believe in Michelle Obama as she too has it all and does such with style, grace, intelligence, and humor.
If you taught a class, what would it be?
How to find your voice – learning to be authentic in speaking up and telling your story in any conversation, including introductions and formal presentations.
Where do you find the most joy in your life?
Traveling with my family and experiencing new cultures. My husband Dave – of almost 43 years – and I have our own bucket list. It includes going to watch Formula 1™ races around the world. We pick one race each year to watch and then spend time in the country. In June we are going to Austria to watch the Austrian F1 Grand Prix™. We will spend just over two weeks visiting Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, and Graz. This will be our sixth F1 Grand Prix!
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
You will get to see the world and history in the making so soak it all in! Everything will work out and you will have the corner office. And you will have the best husband and fabulous two sons. Get ready for the ride!
What is your favorite place or activity to do in Colorado?
I love to be in the mountains with my family – Beaver Creek, Steamboat, or Telluride! I love the scenery, the quiet of a morning coffee on a deck listening to water!
