Maria was elected to the Board of Supervisors on November 5, 2024 and sworn in on November 13, 2024.

Maria graduated magna cum laude from St. Edward’s University (Austin, Texas) with a degree in Criminal Justice. Following college, Maria obtained her law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law. Maria worked for 27+ years as a civilian attorney with the U.S. Army at the Rock Island Arsenal.  As a government attorney, she specialized in procurement law, contract disputes, and administrative law.  Early in her government career, Maria joined the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) and served as the President of this Union for several years. Maria’s career culminated in her promotion to the supervisory/management position of Chief of the TACOM-Rock Island Legal Group. Prior to her retirement, Maria served as the Chief Counsel for TACOM, Warren, Michigan.

Maria has lived in Iowa ever since graduating from law school. She has been active in the community serving as volunteer coach for her son's soccer teams and baseball teams. Most recently, she coached her grandson’s soccer and t-ball teams.  Maria has served on several Boards including the Board of the Riverboat Development Authority and Bettendorf Community Schools Foundation. She served two terms as president of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the Deputy Director of LULAC of Iowa.  She continues to be a member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and the National Organization for Women (NOW).

Maria is married (to William "Bill") and is a proud mother and grandmother. She has three adult sons (two attorneys and a surgeon) and 7 wonderful grandchildren.