4 minute read
Rosie (Privitera) Biondo (’76
President & CEO Mark One Electric Co., Inc.
Residence: Kansas City, Missouri
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Rosie is president of Mark One Electric, a family-owned business with expertise in power, data, lighting and renewable energy. Rosie took the helm in 1994 when her parents retired.
Get to Know Rosie:
What talent would you most like to have? Wish I’d learned to play golf Favorite fictional character? Wonder Woman Favorite musical group? I like a lot of different music from the 70’s era What is your most treasured possession? My family What is your favorite pastime? Zumba, exercise, pool time
WHAT LED TO YOUR CURRENT LEADERSHIP POSITION?
I became president of Mark One Electric in 1994, after 20 years of experience in daily operations and strategy, when my parents retired. They started the business in 1974 servicing small business, commercial and industrial accounts. We quickly developed a reputation as a company that could handle the most difficult projects, and we soon expanded into industrial facilities throughout the U.S. As president, my job became focused on growth and preparing for the future.
My biggest challenge has been being a female in a male-dominated industry. I found out quickly that my employees knew of my commitment to and passion for the company, as most of them had worked alongside me for 20 years. So, although there have been challenges along the way, it seems very natural now.
Kathy (Lisson) Schirger (’91)
Community Advocate
Kathy is a passionate and dedicated community leader as demonstrated by her advocacy for numerous causes, especially those benefiting children.
Get to Know Kathy:
What talent would you most like to have? Public speaking What living person do you most admire? Michelle Obama Favorite fictional character? Lorelai Gilmore (The Gilmore Girls) Favorite musical artist? Beyonce—Run the World (Girls) What is your most treasured possession? Family pictures What is your favorite pastime? Yoga with my girls
WHAT PREPARED YOU MOST FOR THIS POSITION?
A combination of family support and personal traits. I had wonderful parents who had a vision for the company. I have excellent family relationships—including with three brothers who serve as vice presidents at Mark One—that I can rely on in good times as well as challenging ones. Personally, demonstrating persistence and a willingness to adapt have been invaluable.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST SUCCESS?
As of 2021, I’ve been leading Mark One for 27 years. Most companies don’t last that long. I attribute that to effective leadership, strong business relationships and dedicated employees.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO BECOME LEADERS IN THEIR FIELDS?
Always pursue your goals. Be persistent.
Home, food, good company
WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?
Hands-on, very direct
TELL US ABOUT YOUR ADVOCACY AND VOLUNTEER WORK, AND HOW YOU CAME TO BE INVOLVED.
I’ve always loved helping others. For the past six years I’ve been involved with The Children’s Place, an organization that helps children heal from situations involving abuse, neglect or trauma. I served as president of the board, helped manage a capital campaign and created a Teen Advisory Board.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO INVEST YOUR TIME IN THESE CAUSES?
I want to give to those who are in extremely difficult situations through no fault of their own. I am blessed to have grown up in a happy, healthy family and I want to give back however I can. I also volunteer at my children’s schools, including at St. Teresa’s Academy. Giving back in any capacity helps create a better environment for our children to learn and grow as well-rounded, confident and kind women.
Finding creative ways to raise money is a challenge, but also very rewarding. I've also found that personal contact and relationships are crucial to helping people understand the impacts their donations can make.
WHAT PREPARED YOU FOR ADVOCACY WORK?
My parents were always volunteering at church, school and various organizations. Through them, I came to appreciate the good we can do for others. STA also was instrumental by providing opportunities to students so we could see first-hand our impacts on others. This continued into my college experience at Creighton University.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR GREATEST SUCCESS.
fundraising goal. The Kansas City Chiefs partnered with us to raise initial funds, then we were able to reach into the community to raise the rest. Because of the efforts of many, children in need now have a beautiful new building where they can heal and grow.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN WHO WANT TO BECOME MORE INVOLVED IN ADVOCACY WORK?
Jump in. Get involved. Meet people who work in organizations you’re interested in. Join the board and volunteer to help those being served. Raise your hand and take leadership positions!
Perseverance
WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?
Visionary
