Maria was born and raised on Long Island in New York and graduated from the State University of New York at Albany with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Maria worked for both government and private agencies in New York City, connecting graduating young adults with disabilities to employment and housing opportunities. She also spent time in ministry, working with high school students at youth camps across the United States.

Since moving to Australia in 2003, Maria and her family have lived in various locations including the Kimberley, Cocos Keeling Islands and outback Queensland. She moved to Tasmania in 2017, and completed her Masters of Counselling, focusing primarily on family grief and trauma. Much of her practicum was spent in school counselling. Maria has been a member of the pastoral care team at Southern Christian College.

Maria was drawn to The Fahan School by its strong sense of empowerment for each girl, commitment to holistic mental wellness and the wonderful reputation that Fahan girls have in the community.

In addition to her work at Fahan, Maria enjoys time at the beach or in the bush, loves to cook and revels in time spent with her family.