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Learn more about our Events Committee Vice Chair Mary Pat Wixted, a mom of two and avid tea drinker in her fourth and final year on the Spruce Board.
What’s your favorite part about living in or near Philly?
Big city amenities combined with a community feel.
Who’s your favorite Philly icon, alive or dead?
Alice Paul (suffragist from my hometown in South Jersey)
Your out-of-town friends are here for the weekend. Where in Philly do you take them for a good time?
Fairmount Park
What’s a little-known fact about yourself? (Hidden talent? Guilty pleasures? etc.)
I played classical viola in competitive orchestras in middle and high school, and then a pops orchestra in college.
What’s your go-to coffee shop in Philly? And why?
I’m a tea drinker and recommend the chai at Rival Bros … though a real special treat would be getting a full High Tea at Dandelion.
It’s Saturday night—where can we catch you hanging out?
At home with my newborn and toddler — hopefully all asleep!
Favorite film or TV show that features Philly?
The Philadelphia Story (both versions) … or National Treasure.
How long have you been involved with the Spruce Foundation? And why did you decide to get involved?
This is my fourth and final year. When I joined, I was looking to get involved in the Philly philanthropic scene with other young professionals. The notion that anyone can be a philanthropist resonated with me. Meeting a diverse array of passionate, talented individuals from all across the city cemented my interest in applying to the board.
What is your committee (or ad-hoc committee) working on right now that you’re most excited about?
For events, we’re navigating the continued ambiguity of the covid world. It’s a challenge to plan with so many questions. In person? Capacity? Public interest? However, it’s inspiring to work through with this great group.
What has been your favorite event, initiative, or accomplishment while you’ve been at Spruce?
I love seeing our donors and grantees come together to celebrate at Gala.
The Spruce Foundation is managed by an all-volunteer group of rising stars in Philadelphia’s professional community who are dedicated to leveraging their skills to build a promising future for local youth. Learn more about the Spruce Foundation and who we are »