Mary Olds, MBA
Mary Olds is a senior nonprofit executive, community builder, and social entrepreneur with more than 16 years of experience advancing youth development, equity, and community impact across the Mid-South. She currently serves as Senior Vice President of Development for the YMCA’s Central Arkansas expansion, where she is leading philanthropic strategy, community partnerships, and capital development efforts to re-establish and grow YMCA presence in the Little Rock region.
In her role, Mary works closely with civic leaders, school districts, foundations, and corporate partners to align investment with community-identified needs. Her leadership focuses on building sustainable systems that strengthen families, expand access to opportunity, and create long-term impact for children and youth.
Previously, Mary served as Vice President of Middle School and Impact Programs for the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South, overseeing large-scale afterschool and teen development initiatives across dozens of schools. Her work has centered on creating safe, engaging spaces for young people during critical developmental years—programs that prioritize belonging, leadership development, and academic and life success.
In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Mary is the founder and former owner of Muggin Coffeehouse (2020–2024), a community-rooted small business launched in her home neighborhood. More than a coffee shop, Muggin served as a “third space” for connection, conversation, and community gathering. The business provided local jobs, invested directly back into the neighborhood, and funded college scholarships for four students pursuing higher education—reflecting Mary’s belief that economic development and social impact are deeply interconnected.
Mary holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and an MBA in Nonprofit Management from Marylhurst University. Across her career, she has raised significant philanthropic support, led successful annual campaigns, and helped organizations grow their impact through strong partnerships and community trust. In 2021, she was recognized by the Memphis Business Journal with the Superwoman in Business award.
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
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
• 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 the top leadership positions in fundraising development, which can discourage younger generations. It is difficult to be what you don't see. Women make up the majority of the workforce, but it dramatically drops in senior and executive leadership positions.
The other opportunity in my field is authenticity. It is the balance competing priorities while maintaining strong relationships. It 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.