734 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine SOCIAL SERVICES AND NONPROFIT Maria Steffel is a visionary leader and advocate with over 25 years of experience dedicated to expanding and diversifying community services in underserved populations. As an executive director, she transforms organizations into beacons of community-based service in Minnesota. Originally from Coahuila, Mexico, Ms. Steffel’s journey as a first-generation college graduate — with a finance degree from the Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila — is a testament to her determination and resilience. Her extensive training, social service, leadership and cultural competency have further enriched her academic background. For the past three decades, Ms. Steffel has held leadership roles and excelled across diverse sectors, from for-profit businesses to nonprofit human service organizations. Her versatility and competence were showcased at The Scoular Company, Wilson-McShane Company, and as the controller and finance director at Washburn Center for Children and Neighborhood House. Before relocating to the United States, she held leadership positions at global companies, such as Martinrea International Inc., Lear Corporation, PRGX, Fersinsa Gist-Brocades and Pilgrim’s Pride, where she not only created efficiencies but also drove healthier organizational processes, earning the respect and admiration of her peers. In 2019, Ms. Steffel notably collaborated with key members of Neighborhood House to secure a $4 million grant funding, which provided financial aid for over 2,000 families during COVID-19 shutdowns. In 2021, she secured $3 million in paycheck protection grant forgiveness for Washburn Center and Neighborhood House. Between 2023 and 2024, she also secured $900,000 in grant and donor funding for Raíces Sagradas, oversaw daily operations and developed strategic partnerships. Ms. Steffel’s unwavering dedication to community service and leadership philosophy, rooted in empathy, cultural humility, and a profound understanding of the unique challenges immigrant and refugee populations face, is a testament to her commitment. She actively participated in Teletón Mexico, Meals on Wheels and Leadership St. Paul, and she is a current member of GrowCFO. She believes in utilizing unity, collaboration and resilience to create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. MARIA STEFFEL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Neighborhood Development Alliance (NeDA) South St. Paul, MN
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