Mary Alice Valvoda on trust, presence, and community
At Judson Manor, accountability isn’t just a value—it’s something you can feel. Just ask Mary Alice Valvoda, Judson ambassador and founder of MAVZPIX, a photo art studio she runs from her Judson home. With her background in corporate training and her deep community involvement, Mary Alice brings a thoughtful perspective on what it means to create a culture of trust and responsibility.
“It’s ownership, responsibility, being part of a solution, setting goals, and knowing you have the support to achieve those,” she says. Drawing on her professional experience, Mary Alice compares accountability to the legs of a stool—supported by words, actions, and delivery.
“It’s not always what’s said, it’s how it’s said,” she explains. “Body language, tone, and simple human connection matter. That’s how trust is built here—through small gestures that show we’re here for each other.”
Mary Alice sees these values lived out every day at Judson. “They work with each other, help each other. If someone needs help, they’re there to listen, respond, and follow through,” she says, describing the culture of mutual respect and support.
She calls Judson “a warm, enriching environment,” a place where accountability isn’t enforced but embraced. It’s felt in the way staff show up, how they care, and how they follow through.
Ultimately, for Mary Alice, accountability is belonging. It’s the security of knowing someone is there for you—and the joy of being there for someone else.
