Marita is a committed public servant and community advocate with a passion for empowering under-resourced communities. As the Founding President and CEO of Civically, Inc., she leads initiatives like the Free Store Wilkinsburg and Fresh Market, promoting civic literacy and economic development. Her leadership earned Civically, Inc. the Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence in 2020.

Marita’s public service includes her tenure as Mayor of Wilkinsburg (2017-2021) and Borough Council Member(2014-2018), during which she secured over $2 million in grant funding and launched programs to enhance community engagement. She also serves on several prominent boards, including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Phipps Conservatory, and is an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs.

Recognized internationally for her leadership, Marita continues to inspire change through her work in civic engagement and economic revitalization. In her free time, she enjoys Pittsburgh’s cultural scene and relaxing with her dogs.