Maryellen Cedrone – 1st Chair

“I was honored when Vicky invited me to be a part of Rooted Within as I am wired to help others. When I lost my father, I felt very alone and it seemed that others did not realize the deep emotional pain that I was experiencing. After sitting in an ICU for 57 days, realizing that others are going through their own struggles, I remember meeting nurses and other families and although I don’t recall exactly what they said, I do remember how they made me feel – essentially that I was not alone. One of my favorite quotes is Maya Angelou’s “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

I am so grateful for the opportunity to support others.”

– Maryellen Cedrone

Maryellen brings more than 25 years of corporate leadership experience and a long-standing commitment to service. Prior to her appointment to the board, she had a successful career with The Coca-Cola Company where she developed expertise in relationship building, operations, strategy, and leadership skills.

In addition to her corporate background, Maryellen volunteers with American Corporate Partners (ACP), supporting veterans as they transition from the military to the civilian workforce through mentorship and career guidance. She has also volunteered with Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her work across these organizations reflects her strong belief in giving back and helping others. She is committed to advancing Rooted Within’s mission and furthering the foundation’s ability to reach and positively impact those it serves.

Mary Foersterling – Secretary

“When asked to be a part of the Rooted Within Wellness board, not only was I honored, but there was no other answer than “yes”. The mission of this foundation is close to heart having watched too many friends walk this walk and not have the resources they desperately needed. Through assistance, service and encouragement for the foundation, I hope to be a part of fostering an environment of support for families in need.”

– Mary Foersterling

Mary is the mother of 4 grown nature loving children. She has been married to her husband, Jim, for 34 years. She finds her greatest peace while taking hikes searching for waterfalls.

When her second son was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, she began her life’s dedication to early childhood advocacy, parent education and spreading the word about the amazing impact of early intervention. She has cherished her lifelong career in education and has spent the last decade working in a grant program for at risk three to five year olds.

She is passionate about helping children and families by offering education, support, guidance, compassion, understanding and love.