Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1524796
SUMMER / FALL 2024 33 controlled chaos," Maria says as the girls run freely along the gravel path with Troy close behind. e family also enjoys visiting presi- dential libraries around the country. All told, Maria has been to 11 of 15 libraries and plans to visit the remaining four as she incorporates visits into spring and summer break travel plans. "I have an affinity for history," she says. "It's import- ant to look back and see how leaders used their experiences and knowledge to make decisions. With history, you have the advantage of seeing the outcomes, too. ere's a lot to learn." For her part, Maria tends to seek all available information before making a move, an approach she hopes to leverage as WAC Chairman. "I like to understand an issue, to dig in and grasp the details. Being involved in different aspects of WAC leadership for over a decade has given me insight into the many com- ponents of our club." she says. "But I can't do everything or be the expert in everything—so then it's about finding the right people in the right position to support our goals." While she draws upon her past experiences in public service and lessons learned as a history buff, she also stares straight ahead with an admirable practi- cality. "We can't change the past," Maria says. "But we can learn from it and make our future selves better and stronger. I'm eternally optimistic." evenings of food—fish and chips is a favorite—and good company. Caroline and Charlotte, Maria's elementary-aged daughters, occasion- ally spend aer-school hours on the 8th Floor of the WAC, and Troy, who publishes Luxury Home Magazine Seat- tle, hosts his holiday parties at the Club every year. "It's just so easy to be here," Maria says. "It feels like a hidden gem within Seattle." Farther afield While the WAC serves as the Finlaysons' in-city haven, Maria and family regularly retreat to their condo in Suncadia, where Missy and husband Blake also share a house with Karen and Sam. It's here, nestled among the Douglas firs and cool Cascade mountain air, that the family spends most weekends. We caught up with them in Suncadia on a drizzly Sunday in early June—not ideal for swimming or canoeing, the family's usual summer pastimes. at's OK because there are always board games! Maria, Troy, and the girls crowd together on the couch. Nearby, Karen and Sam are in the kitchen. Aer games, Maria suggests a walk. ere's a break in the weather, and the family zips on coats for a stroll around the nearby lake. "We operate in carefully Maria and Troy with daughters Caroline and Charlotte (above). Maria's mom and dad, Karen and Sam, join for a family portrait (left). Fun facts At first meeting, Maria can be a bit mysterious. But she's not all enigma. Here are some fun facts about the new WAC Chairman of the Board. Maria was the mascot at Tigard High School for two years. She wore a Bengal tiger outfit and danced on the sidelines and in parades. During summer months, Maria enjoys crabbing at Picnic Point, between Edmonds and Everett. She plays piano—a childhood pursuit she recently started again.