Mary Bell-Ruiz is a globally seasoned operations executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across defense, diplomacy, and humanitarian sectors. As Spirit of America’s Regional Director for the Middle East and Central Asia, she leads efforts to expand the organization’s partnerships, deliver agile solutions in complex environments, and ensure that American goodwill translates into measurable impact for communities on the frontlines of freedom.

Before joining Spirit of America, Mary founded and led Team Themis, a humanitarian nonprofit that provided emergency relocation, security, and support services to at-risk Afghan women and children. Under her leadership, the organization grew from concept to $2.5 million in operational funding within two years, directly supporting U.S. diplomatic and humanitarian objectives across the region. Her success reflects a rare blend of entrepreneurial drive, operational acumen, and a deep understanding of how to turn vision into sustainable action.

A retired US Navy Senior Intelligence Leader and Arabic linguist, Mary’s career has spanned war zones and diplomatic corridors alike — from managing multimillion-dollar government programs to coordinating crisis responses in Iraq, Jordan, and Afghanistan. She is recognized for her ability to unite diverse teams and stakeholders around shared goals, ensuring mission success even in the most complex operational theaters.

Currently completing a Master’s in International Security at George Mason University, Mary brings both strategic perspective and field-tested experience to her role. Her leadership is defined by integrity, adaptability, and an unshakable belief in partnership as a force multiplier — values that guide her mission to strengthen Spirit of America’s impact across the Middle East and Central Asia.