Women of Scottsdale announced the 2015 Woman of the Year, Mary Contreras, who is a community volunteer and leader, giving time and resources to a number of charities.

She is a founding member of East Valley Women, a member of Central Phoenix Women, the Chandler and Tempe Chamber of Commerce, past Chairman of the Women in Business Council, a former board member of the Tri-City NAIFA and National Bank of AZ Women’s Financial Group Board Member.

In addition to being named Woman of the Year, Contreras is celebrating 20 years as the owner of the Contreras State Farm Agency.

Women of Scottsdale has selected VALLEYLIFE as the 2016 Philanthropy Partner. VALLEYLIFE provides disabled individuals of all ages the opportunity to live a life with choices, independence and dignity.

They service a full range of disabilities and by supporting such a broad spectrum of individuals having an in-depth understanding of how disability affects each person’s life, and what support is needed.

Kate Van Driel, Vice President and Relationship Manager at National Bank of Arizona will take over as the 2016 Director, a volunteer position for Women of Scottsdale.

“We are excited for Kate Van Driel’s leadership and thrilled Mary Contreras is our 2015 Woman of the Year. Along with being energized to partner with VALLEYLIFE to further their mission to provide disabled individuals the opportunity to live a life with independence and dignity,” said Women of Scottsdale President and CEO JoAnn Holland. “We will celebrated Mary last week at our new meeting location at the Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains.”