Maria Valandra has 24 years’ experience in the banking industry and community development. Currently, she is focused on grant management with Communities That Care, which coaches communities across the country through an evidence-based prevention science process that fosters the success of young people through every stage of development.

Prior to this, she worked with Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to help them execute their goals. Maria also worked at a regional bank headquartered in Billings, MT. She held positions as a senior vice president and chief synergy officer, senior vice president of talent management and organization development, and vice president of community development.

Her past board service is extensive and includes co-founding the Montana Indian Business Alliance and the Montana Financial Education Coalition.

Valandra holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Montana State University in Bozeman. She is a member of the Nekaneet Band of the Cree First Nation of Saskatchewan. Originally from Great Falls, MT, Maria now resides in Helena, MT. She is married with three adult sons and one grandson.