BOARD: Mary Von Ahnen

Mary Von Ahnen is a career woman, community volunteer, wife, and mother who has dedicated her life to leadership in both business and service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in writing and English and a master’s degree in Technical Communication from the University of North Texas.

Mary began her professional journey in 1989 with EDS and advanced through roles at CompUSA, Arthur Andersen Business Consulting, and Fossil Group, where she held increasing levels of responsibility. Her corporate career culminated as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Fossil Group, Inc., where she led global IT strategy, digital transformation, and enterprise operations.

After retiring from corporate life in August 2019, Mary pursued her entrepreneurial passion by founding Horizon Hot Yoga, a successful studio she and her husband operated until its sale in November 2024.

Deeply committed to community engagement, Mary has served on numerous nonprofit boards and leadership committees. Her past service includes the 500, Inc. Board, where she served as Director of ARTFEST 1993; Board President of the Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico; Co-Founder of Voce Forte, the young professionals’ arm of the Dallas Opera; and Board member of both the Dallas Opera and the Dallas Women’s Foundation. She also served on the Boards of Head Start Greater Dallas and the Frisco Women’s League and held leadership roles as Director of the Cowboys and Canines Event for the SPCA and Refresh NTX Gala Director. A proud graduate of the Leadership Dallas Class of 1993, Mary continues to champion causes that strengthen the arts, education, and community well-being.

Mary and her husband, Mike Von Ahnen, have been married for 29 years and are the proud parents of two children. In retirement, she enjoys devoting her time and energy to nonprofit initiatives that speak to her heart and reflect her lifelong commitment to service