Mary Capparuccini
34 | Partner, Financial Advisor, CFP® professional, Hadley Financial Group
Residence: Chittenden
Career Highlights: I’m most proud of earning my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification — a milestone that required 6,000 hours of experience, eight courses, a six-hour exam, and an ethics certification. The process strengthened my expertise across all areas of financial planning and gave me a deeper ability to guide clients with clarity, empathy, and long-term perspective.
Community Involvement: My community involvement involves strengthening Vermont’s nonprofit, business, and civic networks through leadership, mentorship, and service. I currently serve on multiple boards—including the Women Business Owners Network, Burlington Young Professionals, and the Heineberg Community Senior Center—where I help advance entrepreneurship, intergenerational connection, and community well-being. Through my volunteer work, I provide hands-on tech support for seniors, mentor small business founders through Mercy Connections, and contribute to local arts and youth programs.
My leadership also extends to fundraising and philanthropy, having helped raise more than $120,000 for education, seniors, and veteran initiatives through the New York Life Foundation. A lifelong volunteer since the age of 14, I continue to champion collaboration, mentorship, and service across Vermont and beyond, striving to inspire others to invest in their communities.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: Vermont is such a tight-knit, community-oriented state, and I’m incredibly grateful to live and work here. What I love most is the depth of the relationships I’ve been able to build—with my clients, local businesses, and entire communities. There’s a true sense of connection and shared purpose that makes every interaction meaningful. Working closely with Vermont’s entrepreneurs allows me to see firsthand the creativity, innovation, and dedication that drive our local economy. Every day, I’m inspired by the people who pour their hearts into their work and their communities, and I feel fortunate to be part of a place where collaboration and care are such a natural way of life.
Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is hearing people’s stories—their hopes, dreams, and wishes for their families—and having the opportunity to play a small part in helping those dreams come true. Every conversation is a reminder that my work is about more than numbers or plans; it’s about people, their values, and their visions for the future. Being trusted to help turn those goals into reality is truly the most rewarding part of what I do.
Most inspiring mentor and why: My most inspiring mentor is Scott Hadley, who took me under his wing and taught me how to run an advisory practice, manage employees, and lead with integrity. He’s been a constant source of guidance and support, shaping not only my career but also the kind of leader I strive to be.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you: Most people are surprised to learn that I was a theater kid (including going to high school for theater). Because I can come across as reserved at first, it often catches people off guard when they see how comfortable and expressive I am speaking in front of a large crowd.
Favorite downtime activity: Walking to and around Lake Champlain.
If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: The cause I would most want to support is expanding resources for seniors in Vermont. Providing greater access to technology, community programs, and support services helps ensure older adults remain connected, engaged, and empowered to continue contributing their wisdom and experience to our communities.
Drawing on your experiences, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in community service: Find a cause that aligns with your values and take the first step, no matter how small. True impact comes from commitment, connection, and the willingness to give your time and heart to others.