Wadina

Maria Wadina serves as the Chief Growth Officer at La Casa de Esperanza, where she oversees Charter School operations with a focus on strategic growth—including student enrollment, academic achievement, and school development. In addition to her work with the school, Maria leads the agency’s marketing, communications, and events, helping to elevate La Casa’s presence in the community and beyond.

Maria has been with La Casa as an employee since 2020, following four years of service on the La Casa de Esperanza Board of Directors. Her time on the board deepened her connection to the organization’s mission and inspired her continued commitment to its work.

As an immigrant herself, Maria is deeply moved by La Casa’s mission to support and empower families—especially those new to the country, by providing opportunities that build stability, confidence, and long-term success. She is a strong advocate for education and takes pride in seeing La Casa students thrive, especially when they graduate 8th grade and earn acceptance and scholarships to top private high schools in the region.

Maria holds a bachelor’s degree in Leadership from Alverno College. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, cheering on her high school son at sporting events, and visiting her college son at UMass Amherst. She also serves on the Marquette University High School Development Board.