While working as a manager and buyer for a small boutique, Maria Willging Kennedy knew she wanted to help people on a deeper level. Her best client was a mortgage broker who got her an interview with her employer. It wasn’t easy learning the business, she says, but for the past 17 years it’s been her passion.

A senior mortgage consultant with A&N Mortgage Services, she often works with first-time homebuyers because she loves answering their questions and being there for them. Her clients say she’s always responsive and understanding of their needs.

I’m not afraid of a challenging loan whether that be for a borrower with credit issues or a self-employed borrower with complex tax returns,” she says. “I am a problem solver and hand holder by nature and my clients know that I truly care about them.”

The pandemic didn’t slow her down. Her success continued in 2020 when she was able to help more clients than ever, all while working from home and managing her daughter who was e-learning from home as well.

“I have never been busier at work, but I got to be with my family more than ever and we learned to appreciate the little things in life,” she says. “If you have your health you have everything.”

Kennedy has a passion for volunteerism. In March she participated in the Move-in for Habitat Chicago fundraiser as a member of the A&N Mortgage team. Prior to the pandemic, she was a board member and volunteer at Lincoln Park Community Services.

“I enjoyed volunteering there for years and I love giving back to my community,” she says. “Now that things are opening up I’m looking forward to volunteering in person.”