Profile in Philanthropy: Marie Medina, Director of Development
Meet Marie Medina, WFCO Director of Development
Marie Medina joined The Women’s Foundation of Colorado as Director of Development in May. Marie is passionate about supporting all women, and she is a fierce advocate for women’s economic freedom and fostering a Colorado where everyone belongs. Outside of work, she finds joy in friendships, tarot, and being by the water. Read on to learn more about her small-town roots, favorite Netflix genres, and commitment to the healing work of women’s-focused philanthropy! 
Tell us something not many people know about you?
Once people get to know me, they usually learn this, but it always surprises folks at first—I grew up in a very rural area. My high school graduating class had just 35 people!
Why is supporting women a top priority for you?
Our society has such a narrow view of gender, especially here in the U.S. When we support women—all women—we’re really saying everyone belongs, and everyone gets to show up as their full self. For too long, women have been marginalized, weaponized, and tokenized. When women thrive, everyone thrives.
What’s your vision of equity for women in Colorado?
Equity for women starts with economic freedom. It’s truly within reach—but without it, we’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible. Economic freedom unlocks the ability for women to lead, shape our communities, rest and restore, and move us toward a Colorado where everyone is welcome and everyone thrives.
What other philanthropic passions do you have?
We’re in a powerful moment for philanthropy. There’s a growing movement of people with wealth who are guided by money coaches and resource mobilizers—folks intentionally moving money back to communities it was extracted from. When done with care and integrity, this work is profoundly healing. I’m honored to be part of it.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue women and families are facing in Colorado?
One of the biggest barriers is the outdated and harmful Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, or TABOR. As our CEO Renee Ferrufino says, it “strangles investments in Colorado women and children.” It’s time to unshackle ourselves from this archaic policy. Education is the first step—Renee’s op-ed in The Colorado Sun is a great place to start learning about how TABOR harms women, children, and working families.
Who is your Shero? Who have been the leaders or mentors on your journey?
The women in my family—especially my grandmothers and great-grandmothers—are my pillars. Staying connected to my ancestral lineage and continuing a relationship with these women, even after they’ve passed, gives me strength and clarity. My paternal abuela, Dolores Villareal Medina, was a community leader, mother of nine, and served on President Johnson’s War on Poverty campaign in Southern Colorado. She taught me generosity, the importance of advocating for yourself and your people—and how to always have the perfect nail color.
If you had to teach a class, what would it be?
Tarot. I love exploring the symbolism, stories, and insights within the cards. There’s so much wisdom in that practice.
Where do you find the most joy in your life?
In friendship. I pour a lot of love into my relationships, and they are absolutely my greatest joy.
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
Be weirder.
What’s your favorite place or activity in Colorado?
Water is my happy place. In winter, I love soaking in our incredible hot springs. In summer, boating or kayaking on Lake Dillon feels like stepping into a dream.
Favorite guilty pleasure on Netflix?
Cozy murder mysteries—can murder be cozy? I’m currently into The Residence with Uzo Aduba.
Pineapple on pizza—yay or nay?
Not my first choice… but if someone else is paying, I’ll give it a whirl!
If you’d like to connect with Marie further, you can contact her at mariem@wfco.org.
