NLO Press

Mary Snell Honored with Three National Awards in 2025

New Leaf Organization is proud to announce that our Founder and CEO, Mary E. Snell, has been recognized with three national awards this year for her leadership and commitment to redefining education.

  • Aspioneer Magazine named Mary Trailblazing Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

  • Digital Times Media featured her as one of the Top Five Unstoppable Women Leaders Shaping the Future of Education.

  • CIO Views spotlighted Mary in their feature, “Mary Snell Turns Over a New Leaf: Replanting the Roots of Education for the Overlooked,” recognizing her innovative and inclusive approach to building pathways for students who often feel left behind in traditional schools.

Each recognition shines a light on Mary’s vision for education that is personalized, supportive, and deeply connected to community needs. Under her leadership, New Leaf Organization and Buckeye Community Schools have become safe and empowering environments where students are seen, heard, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

These awards are more than a personal achievement — they reflect the hard work of our staff, the resilience of our students, and the support of families and community partners who believe in second chances and brighter futures.

Join us in celebrating Mary’s accomplishments and the mission of New Leaf Organization. Together, we are proving that when students are given the right support, communities grow stronger.

Mary Snell Turns Over a New Leaf: Replanting the Roots of Education for the Overlooked

Trailblazing Female Entrepreneur of the Year, 2025

Top 5 Unstoppable Women Leaders Shaping the Future of Education 2025


Mary Snell Turns Over a New Leaf: Replanting the Roots of Education for the Overlooked

News Provided by CIO VIEWS The 10 Most Impactful Business Leaders to Watch in 2025

In an education system that often asks students to bend, break, or conform to fit in, Mary Snell chose a different path, one marked by intention, compassion, and an unshakable belief in human worth. As CEO of New Leaf Organization, Mary doesn’t just lead a nonprofit. She leads a quiet revolution, one that redefines what it denotes to educate, to reach, to heal. READ MORE >>


Second Chance at Success: New Leaf Organization | Fox Business Network, PBS

Empowered by Meg Ryan


Second Chance at Success: New Leaf Organization Offers Hope and Opportunity on Empowered with Meg Ryan

News Provided by Empowered

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Empowered with Meg Ryan, an award-winning public television program focused on empowering viewers through impactful storytelling, will feature a segment highlighting New Leaf Organization, a beacon of hope for students who haven't found success in a traditional school environment. READ MORE >>