Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1545353
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 11 J U N E 1 5 , 2 0 2 6 AWA R D C O M M U N I T Y I M PA C T AWA R D S LEGACY OF SERVICE: Offering hands-on leadership com- bined with measurable results B y A l e x i s W e l l s Cary Olson Cartwright, the assistant vice president of corporate and social responsibility at Unum and board chair of several institutions across the state, has built a legacy of service defined by hands-on leadership, mea- surable results and a deep commitment to strengthen- ing communities across Maine. Even during one of the most difficult periods of her life, marked by the loss of family members, Cartwright did not step away from service. Instead, she channeled her empathy and strength into sup- porting others and strengthening the institutions that serve Maine's people. As board chair of the Olympia Snowe Women's Leadership Institute, Cartwright has combined gover- nance with direct mentorship, helping shape the next generation of women leaders while driving organiza- tional growth. Among her many accomplishments, she spearheaded the Giving Tuesday campaign by pledging a $2,500 personal matching gift if the institute could exceed 50 alum donors. e challenge expanded donor engagement, increasing alum participation from less than 0.05% to 6% in a single day and inspiring 61 alum donors to contribute. Beyond her work with the Olympia Snowe Women's Leadership Institute, Cartwright has advanced educa- tion, workforce development and health initiatives through leadership roles with organizations. In the health care sector at the Dempsey Center, Cartwright has helped raise awareness of the orga- nization's holistic approach to cancer care, while her leadership has strengthened its capacity to support individuals and families during some of life's most challenging moments. Cartwright has served on the boards of the Mitchell Institute and Jobs for Maine Graduates, aligning with their missions to help young people transition into postsecondary education and the workforce. She also served on the board of the Great Schools Partnership, supporting its efforts to advance educational equity and improve schools across the state. Widely recognized for inspiring her colleagues at Unum to engage in community service, she has helped create a culture of volunteerism that extends beyond the workplace and into the broader business community. Her legacy is defined not only by her leadership and financial support, but also by her willingness to share her expertise, perspective and lived experience. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E ยป P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY Cary Olson Cartwright helps Portland High School student Dayana Owanga during a communication and team building activity as part of a Jobs for Maine Graduates program. Here to build something better. androscogginbank.com