Mary Timby
40 Under Forty - 2025 Honoree
Communications Professional
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would that be?
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, I’d say: trust yourself. You already have good instincts, skills, and more resilience than you realize. Don’t waste energy second-guessing or comparing yourself to others. Lean into your strengths, follow your gut, and know that you are capable of handling more than you realize.
Who do you count as your greatest mentor(s) that have helped you succeed in your personal and professional life?
I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who shaped me both personally and professionally. My grandpa Jack was the first person I remember telling me I was smart, and that simple affirmation stayed with me. My family as a whole has always been a steady source of support, reminding me of who I am and encouraging me to keep going, even when things felt uncertain. In college, my professors and advisors at Colorado State University played a huge role. They saw potential in me before I fully recognized it myself, and their guidance encouraged me to step into opportunities I might have otherwise overlooked. Throughout my career, I’ve also had the privilege of working with and for great leaders who modeled integrity, vision, and resilience. Each of these mentors believed in me in different ways, and together they gave me the confidence to trust my own path and pursue the goals that matter most.
Where do you see yourself and what will you be doing with your life after 40?
After 40, I see myself continuing to use communications as a force for good. In a world that often feels divided, I want to focus my energy on creating understanding, fostering connection, and helping people engage with what truly matters. Whether through storytelling, advocacy, or leadership, I hope to use my voice and experience to bring people together and make a lasting contribution in both my community and my work.


