Mary Furlong has been recognized as one of the Inspiring Women of San Francisco, an honor presented by the San Francisco Examiner and Nob Hill Gazette. She joins a group of 20 women acknowledged for their impact across government, business, healthcare, philanthropy, media, and grassroots leadership.

This year’s honorees include influential leaders shaping the future of the region, from public sector leadership such as Sheng Thao to executives guiding major organizations like Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

For Mary, the recognition carries deep personal meaning.

A native of San Francisco, her connection to the city spans decades of work, teaching, and innovation. She credits her entrepreneurial drive to her father and her early academic career at University of San Francisco and Santa Clara University.

San Francisco has also been the foundation for much of her pioneering work in longevity and aging. It is where she helped build SeniorNet, launched Third Age, and continues to co-host the annual What’s Next Longevity events, as well as gatherings during the JPM Healthcare Conference.

Throughout her career, Mary has been guided by the belief that meaningful work does not have an expiration date, a perspective she has long associated with the legacy of Julia Morgan.

Her work has consistently focused on elevating the role of older adults as leaders, innovators, and contributors. Long before longevity became a widely discussed topic, San Francisco served as both inspiration and proving ground for her vision that experience, purpose, and innovation belong together.

Reflecting on the recognition, Mary shared that she is looking forward to celebrating the moment with family, friends, colleagues, and fellow honorees, while continuing the work that has defined her career.