Maryann Taylor Crate
MaryAnn Taylor Crate is a seasoned communications strategist and the Owner of Added Dimension, LLC, a St. Charles-based consulting firm she founded in 2005. With over two decades of experience, MaryAnn specializes in community engagement, public involvement, and grassroots outreach for public-sector projects—particularly those that may require significant community input and public buy-in. Her firm is known for designing creative, customized communication strategies that help organizations build trust, foster transparency, and achieve consensus in complex environments.
Throughout her career, MaryAnn has worked on various transportation, infrastructure, government, and nonprofit projects. She helps her clients engage communities in meaningful ways. Her leadership is grounded in a mission to empower everyday voices in decision-making processes, exemplified by her firm’s motto: “Engaging ordinary people, achieving extraordinary results.” In addition to her consulting work, she holds two Master Degrees and is a proud graduate of Focus St. Louis, a local leadership training program.
Beyond her professional endeavors, MaryAnn is actively involved in community service, including her long-standing role as a board member with the St. Charles Branch of the YMCA of Greater St. Louis. Her blend of strategic insight, hands-on leadership, and dedication to civic engagement continues to make a lasting impact across the St. Louis region and beyond.
• Minority Business Enterprise/Women Business Enterprise
• Blackburn College- Bachelor's
• Golden Key International Honour Society
• St. Louis Forum
• Gateway Region YMCA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my hard work and determination to make my part of the world a better place.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice that I received was to never stop learning.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to not be afraid to ask questions, accept help from others and always remember that a "no" does not mean "never", it may just be a "not now."