In Mariann’s role in Affirmative Action & Equal Opportunity at Oregon Health & Science University, she became aware of the prevalence of stress and trauma experienced by all parties related to employment discrimination complaints. By completing an MSW at Portland State University, including a year-long emergency room practicum, she integrated trauma-informed and strength-based coaching into her work. This skill set enhanced Mariann’s ability to successfully facilitate the resolution of hundreds of civil rights complaints in a high volume, high stakes, and fast-paced environment.

Recognizing that civil rights compliance alone does not create inclusive, welcoming workplaces, and that systemic change is necessary for cultural transformation, Mariann undertook leading diversity as strategic change in organizations, and fostering leadership growth and development.

2020 presented a new challenge with the pandemic and civil rights uprising. Leveraging her legal, risk management, DEI, HR, and social work skills, Mariann provided organization-wide leadership for COVID-19 response and re-entry as the Vice President of People & Culture at Oregon Community Foundation. This experience prompted Mariann to seek additional training about trauma-informed systems change, the neurobiology of stress, fear and toxic racism, and mindfulness self-compassion. She discovered a passion for leading through crisis and change, leadership growth and development.

During the pandemic, individuals and organizations began reaching out to Mariann to seek her assistance with conflict resolution, training, and coaching. They needed someone who understood the complexities of organizations, DEI, and who could facilitate cross-cultural communication, bolster leadership development, and expand individual and organizational capacity to change. This sparked the creation of Hyland Solutions in 2021.