About me
Maria Darby serves as Chief Engagement Officer, leading national partnership strategy, development, and external engagement to fuel organizational growth and impact. With more than 25 years of leadership experience across healthcare, education, and philanthropy, she specializes in building high-impact, cross-sector collaborations that expand opportunity and drive systems change.
Maria oversees Partnership Development and Success as well as Philanthropy and Donor Relations, cultivating strong relationships with nonprofit partners, workforce boards, training providers, employers, and funders nationwide. She plays a central role in market expansion and represents the organization at national and regional conferences and events.
Previously, she served as Chief Operating Officer, leading enterprise-wide operations across multiple states. The elevation of her role reflects both her exceptional leadership and the critical importance of partnerships to continued growth. Maria was honored with The Daily Record’s 2025 Health Care Hero Award for her leadership and impact. Her people-centered approach continues to strengthen healthcare career pathways and communities across the country.
