VP, Workforce Effectiveness and Diversity, Marriott; Upper Marlboro, MD
Children: Devin, 14; Marcus, 10 ♦  Husband: James Chavis

Why We Love Her
There’s an adage that says, “You don’t realize how strong a person really is until you see her at her weakest moment.” Maruiel found the truth in this when her parents passed away and her husband took a new job that required frequent travel—all within one year. Although she was facing the most turbulent and lonely time of her life, what her staff saw was a role model. Maruiel continued to mentor young women and advocate for diversity issues—proving what a powerhouse she really is when the going gets tough.

Q: What’s your best advice for a new mom returning to work?

A: Consider a gradual transition back into the workplace and for your child into childcare. If at all possible, schedule your first week on the job with less work hours, shorter days, etc. This will enable you to adjust emotionally to the work change, and the level of separation you will feel from your child. Furthermore, if childcare is being provided, a modified schedule also enables the child to adjust to the feeling of being without their parents.

Q: What’s your biggest working mom confession?

A: At the beginning of one school year, I made a commitment to my son that I would go on his field trips. My son told me that there was some volunteer paperwork I needed to submit and I would be able to attend. It sounded very simple, but then I learned that the school system required participation in a detailed certification program, which included numerous requirements, even attending a class. Unfortunately, my procrastination due to work priorities resulted in me missing all of his field trips for the year. Needless to say, he was very disappointed and I felt that I had let him down.

Q: What’s your best tip for keeping your home life running smoothly?

A: My husband and I review our schedules weekly and determine what needs to be done, then we plan what actions we need to make to accomplish work and family expectations. We schedule time in for special events to make sure that I am present. Secondly, we recognize that the ability to run a smooth home life requires building support systems of family and friends. Therefore, we have family members, friends and neighbors that can help us to manage the personal life commitments when there are schedule conflicts and/or unexpected events.