From Katrina-stricken New Orleans to troubled regions throughout the world, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter has spent much of her life sharing herself and her resources with those in need. In her current position, McElveen-Hunter serves as the first woman to lead the Board of Governors of the American Red Cross. She is the founder and chief executive of Pace Communications, and served as the U.S. ambassador to Finland under President George W. Bush.
Do you consider yourself to be of a specific faith?
I am a Presbyterian — sometimes known as “the frozen chosen.” Faith surely is not determined by denomination, but is a lifelong journey. Most important is how we put our faith to work. The Red Cross is where I am able to put my faith to work with grace, love and compassion, for the least, the last and the lost, with great dignity of purpose — whether in a refugee camp in Darfur, a shelter after Katrina or assisting our wounded warriors at Walter Reed. My good friend, Dr. Tom Tewell, says there are two most important days in our lives — the day we are born and the day we understand why. The Red Cross helps me define the why in my life.
As someone who has given much of your money and time, what ought to guide our capacity for giving?
We come into this world with nothing and we leave with nothing, and all we really keep is what we give away. As the owner of Pace Communications, we tithe 15 percent of our profits annually in good and bad economic times. I don’t believe giving hurts, except at first. But giving is a habit — a worthy habit.
Reflecting on your own success as a businesswoman, why did you create the Women Business Leaders Summit, meeting in places from Latvia to Jordan?
Surely the destiny of every nation depends on the utilization of 100 percent of its resources, both male and female. I believe business is one of the most powerful forces in the world today. It ushers in social, economic and political change, and liberates millions of people from poverty. The Women Business Leaders Summit partners U.S. women CEOs with women entrepreneurs from around the world and provides partnerships, cherished colleagues and a business lifeline, while creating the opportunity of new jobs around the world.
You have traveled all over the world doing projects with the Red Cross and others. Has any place or project taught you a lesson you weren’t expecting?
The greatest gift we give is the gift given out of scarcity. As I travel around the world, particularly on the continent of Africa, I am constantly overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of individuals who live in destitute poverty and yet willingly share their meager resources with each other and with me, a stranger.
At your core, what is your defining belief?
I believe that even if we do not love God, that God never stops loving us. I believe in the unconditional nature of God’s forgiveness, joy and inspiration. I have been inspired by the example, faith and pearls of wisdom of my mother, Madeline McElveen. I will share a few: Time is precious, use it wisely. Work is a privilege. Mediocrity is the greatest sin. Failure is a comma, never a period. And ‘can’t’ is a word that does not exist. I also believe in the power of prayer, as I am a daily and grateful recipient.
