Mutual of Omaha Chief Administrative Officer Liz Mazzotta’s dedication to service and volunteerism has spanned decades, making a significant impact across various sectors.
For Mazzotta, volunteerism began at a young age.
"I think my first volunteer work was as a candy striper in middle school," she said. "I worked at a local hospital assisting nurses with tasks like delivering meals and taking care of patients."
This early exposure to service sparked a lifelong commitment, and she soon expanded her volunteer efforts to support a variety of organizations over the years. The list includes her children’s school, Vocational Education Foundation of Nebraska, Heartland Workforce Solutions, Easter Seals, Metro Community College Foundation, Goodwill, the Urban League and the Mutual of Omaha Foundation. Additionally, Mazzotta currently serves as the board chair for Siena Francis House.
Her commitment to service is not just a personal value but a family tradition.
"My mother was a Red Cross volunteer for years and was a good role model for me," she said.
After her passing, Mazzotta’s mother was awarded a high honor as a Red Cross volunteer.
Mazzotta’s dedication to helping others continues to be deeply influenced by her mother’s example.
Mazzotta’s influence is reflected in Mutual of Omaha’s own volunteer program. She was instrumental in advocating to expand our volunteer time policy.
"If associates can volunteer and support causes they care about, it strengthens our culture and connects us to the community,” she said. “Our policy encourages managers to engage with associates by helping them plan and balance their volunteer time with their professional responsibilities.”
As a business professional, mother, seasoned board member and volunteer, Mazzotta admits there isn’t enough time in the day to say “yes” to everything.
“Sometimes that means getting creative in how you can assist, like offering to serve on a committee or in an advisory capacity. Finding a way to learn how to gracefully say ‘no’ to certain opportunities is important because you cannot do it all," she said.
Beyond her professional and board work, Mazzotta’s maintained a deep love for the arts. A former ballet teacher and dancer, she fondly recalls her time teaching dance.
"Dance taught me discipline and the importance of understanding and channeling different skill sets in my students — lessons I carry into my work and leadership today," she said.
Her journey shows service isn’t just about time spent. It’s also about impact, balance and passion. Mazzotta humbly noted she didn’t think she should be chosen to be interviewed for this feature because there are so many associates who give their time and energy to employee resource groups, volunteering and supporting causes they care about — and that’s what makes our culture so strong.
"I'm just one part of that broader effort, and I’m grateful for the opportunity," she said.