Story #56: Maria Dominguez Gray, Executive Director, on Leadership and Public Service

Oct 7

In an insightful conversation with the Crimson, Maria Dominguez Gray reflected on her 25-year journey with the PBHA, where she has served as the Class of 1955 Executive Director for 11 years. Maria shared her deep commitment to public service and the transformative impact of student engagement on both individuals and the broader community. She discussed how PBHA has evolved, particularly in fostering leadership among diverse student groups, and emphasizes the importance of critical reflection in service work. With a personal connection to Boston and Cambridge, Maria spoke candidly about the joys and challenges of her role, the lessons learned from mentoring students, and the significance of maintaining idealism in the face of cynicism.

Her passion for community-driven change is evident as she encouraged students to embrace their unique perspectives while advocating for others. This interview highlights the dedication and hard work that underpin PBHA's mission, along with Maria's hopes for the future of both the organization and her own journey.

“I wish more people knew about how intentional and how hard the officers and staff work to make things happen and how much they often just come from a place of integrity. I also think that alumni especially, but also community partners, don’t know that PBHA is a separate 501(c)(3) and that we have to raise a lot of our own money, and we definitely have some support from Harvard, but we still have to raise $2.5 million a year. Most of that money raised goes straight to programs and supporting students.” - Maria Dominguez Gray
“Be yourself. Be humble. Part of being yourself and being humble is doing your own work to be aware of your own biases and assumptions as you’re coming in. I often say for students in all leadership positions: when you’re making a decision about whether to be at a program or whether to do something different — what’s going to matter five years from now? I do think there are some moments where if a child needed you and you stayed a bit longer, that’s an important part of your education that you’ll remember more than 5 years from now. More than if you spent another hour on that pset (problem set).” - Maria Dominguez Gray