The Rose Mary Perez Foundation was created in memory, honor and legacy of our beloved Rose Mary Perez, a scholastic and business leader - and matchless inspiration in life, success and love of everyone she encountered.
Rose Mary was a first-generation American whose family immigrated from Galicia, Spain. She was raised in Queens, in a home where Spanish was her first language, and where Spanish culture was near and dear to her heart. She spent significant time over the years going to visit Corredoira (Celanova, Ourense), her family’s hometown in Spain.
Early on, Rose Mary distinguished herself academically and went on to attend St. John’s University on a full scholarship. After obtaining a Bachelor's degree, Rose Mary had her first foray to Wall Street, working for two years as a financial analyst with JPMChase Bank. However, she recognized the value of continuing her education, and returned to school after the program, receiving an MBA from NYU - again with a full scholarship.
From there, Rose Mary had a long and successful career in investment banking, at prestigious firms including Lehman and Barclays, and eventually moved up to a senior position in Credit Agricole, as a Managing Director in loan syndication, with a focus on the Latin American market.
She was widely respected and admired for her commitment, subject matter expertise and willingness to take on challenging projects. In a predominantly male-dominated field, Rose succeeded and was the quintessential leader, teammate, role model and mentor for many.
Rose loved everyone instinctively, and without exception saw the best in people. To be her friend was to know unbridled generosity and compassion; her inimitable smile spoke of her wisdom, her light, and her tireless positivity in support of others.
We are all forever changed for having known this beautiful soul. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of all of us.
Her legacy will live on in the "Rosebuds" who will be helped along the way through her foundation.
Forever in our hearts xo