Mary Olds, MBA
Mary Olds, MBA, is a dynamic nonprofit leader and community advocate currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Development for the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South in Little Rock, Arkansas. With a career spanning more than 15 years in nonprofit management, Mary has dedicated herself to fostering community growth through strategic partnerships, youth development, and organizational leadership. She began her journey with the YMCA in Memphis, where she held a variety of roles, from center operations to youth programs, helping transform communities and cultivate lasting impact. Her work has been recognized through honors such as the 2021 Memphis Business Journal Superwoman in Business award.
Mary’s career is marked by a commitment to community transformation and fundraising excellence. Among her most notable achievements is securing the largest community gift in the association’s history—a $100,000 donation for YMCA building reconstruction—while serving as center director in White Haven, Memphis. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to listen, engage, and respond to community needs, balancing strategic vision with hands-on leadership to empower youth and families. Beyond the YMCA, Mary is also the founder of Muggin Coffeehouse, LLC, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for her community.
A lifelong learner, Mary earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and an MBA in Nonprofit Management from Marylhurst University. She continues to pursue knowledge through online courses and masterclasses, exemplifying her belief in continuous growth. Outside of her professional life, Mary is a devoted mother of three, married for nearly 24 years, and enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring new experiences with her family. Her personal and professional life is rooted in a deep passion for service, education, and community enrichment, making her a transformative force wherever she serves.
• Finding Energy and Optimism during Difficult Times
• Marylhurst University0 M.B.A.
• The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
• Superwoman in Business
• Hixson First Baptist Church
• Rotary Club
• TnAchieves
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to trust your gut and have confidence in yourself—your instincts and intuition are powerful guides.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is addressing gender representation. There are still few women in development, which can discourage younger generations, and balance competing priorities while maintaining strong relationships requires intentional effort to make everyone feel seen and heard.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are integrity and alignment—making sure my actions at work reflect my personal values and vice versa.