Mary Fete, Executive Director of the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias, named Chief Influencer

The Communications Board names Mary Fete, Executive Director of the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED), a Chief Influencer.

What does it mean to lead a global movement with heart? In this episode of Chief Influencer, Mary Fete reflects on her two-decade journey leading NFED, a patient-centered nonprofit that supports families affected by rare disorders in more than 120 countries.

A registered nurse by training, Mary shares how listening has been the cornerstone of her leadership in how it shapes everything from groundbreaking research to personalized family care. She recounts NFED’s role in advancing the historic EDELIFE clinical trial for XLHED and emphasizes the power of empathy, connection, and collaboration in driving real change.

Mary also offers lessons on legacy, influence, and innovation in the nonprofit world. From using technology to enhance human connection, to empowering families to advocate through storytelling, she shows how mission-driven leadership can achieve global impact while remaining deeply personal. As she prepares to pass the baton, Mary’s message is clear: lasting influence is not about expertise or accolades. Instead, it’s about listening, showing up, and building a community rooted in trust, compassion, and belonging.

Host: Anthony Shop
Guest: Mary Fete
Producer: The Communications Board
Sponsor: The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

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