Leading with Purpose: Maria Gonzalez's Community Vision
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Maria Gonzalez, originally from Colombia, moved to the United States in 1998. She pursued a degree in Accounting in Medellín but has always had a deep-rooted passion for fitness and helping others. From a young age, Maria was actively involved in competitive swimming and water polo, even reaching the national team level. This lifelong dedication to fitness has significantly shaped her career and personal philosophy.
Starting her career at ClubFitness in 2001, Maria quickly progressed through various roles, from Aquatics Director to eventually becoming CEO of ClubFitness Greensboro in 2019. Her journey through the ranks demonstrates her hard work, dedication, and a strong commitment to personal growth.
Maria has exemplified hard work, dedication, and a commitment to education and personal growth. Her leadership and positive encouragement are an inspiration to members, staff, and the community.
She is an active member of the community as a volunteer and in more formal roles in different organizations and received a Leadership Medal in 2018 from Leadership Greensboro. A 2015 class participant of Leadership Greensboro and 2016 Leadership Greensboro Program Co-Chair, 2020 Other Voices and 2021 Other Voices Executive class participant, she is a member of the Cone Health Board of Trustees, NC Folk Festival, Weaver Foundation, NCCJ, Hirsch Wellness Network, GEA Leadership Team, Grants Committee of City Arts of Greensboro, and Co-Chair of Casa Azul of Greensboro. Maria is a founding partner of the GSO National and International Dance Day at Lebauer Park and led the Faces of Diversity: Greensboro Project. These events have brought hundreds of people together to dance, laugh, make new friends while embracing and celebrating the diversity of their community.
Maria's influence extends into the realm of policy advocacy, where she tirelessly champions the broader health benefits of fitness. Her advocacy is particularly evident in her support for the PHIT Act, a legislative effort aimed at making fitness more accessible to the public through financial incentives. Maria understands that effective leadership involves not only managing a successful business but also advocating for changes that benefit the entire community. Through her efforts on Capitol Hill and her involvement with various health and wellness boards, Maria is actively contributing to shaping policies that promote physical activity and holistic health across the nation. Her dedication to these causes demonstrates a deep commitment to not just leading a fitness center, but leading a movement towards a healthier, more active society.
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