As an account executive with Surety Title, Diane Ridgway has survived the real estate industry’s ups and downs for almost 50 years. She is well-known for her professionalism, marketing ability and work ethic, but what many people don’t know about Diane is that she is also a painter and illustrator.
“I have always painted as a hobby. It is my favorite pastime. I do not consider myself a professional painter; I just love to paint. I have taken various art classes along the way but am mostly self-taught, “said Diane.
She recently illustrated the cover for her husband’s book “Ava’s Dream,” a civics lesson wrapped in a fictional tale for middle school and older students. The book has received rave reviews for both the content and the cover art.
While raising her children, Diane joined Art Goes To School in Mount Laurel, a non-profit art appreciation program for elementary school students. The group uses and studies fine art reproductions and then brings this information into the classroom to encourage students to look, feel and value art. She enjoyed the group so much that she presented the program to the Board of Education in her hometown of Marlton. Once it was part of the curriculum, Diane served as President for eight years.
The dedication she brings to her profession and her passion, she also brings to her volunteerism with Impact100 South Jersey. Diane says it’s the members who are an inspiration to her. “The focus of the group aligns with my belief that giving to local non-profits is important for the community, and I love the enthusiasm of the members,” she said. Since a lot of her charitable time is spent with business-related efforts, she appreciates the opportunity of direct giving with “no strings” attached.
Diane also serves as President of South Jersey Women in Business, a professional networking group designed to promote, support and create opportunities for business women in the community. The members offer business referrals, share knowledge and contacts, and support each other with encouragement and brainstorming.
Diane has been a member of Impact100 South Jersey since 2019 and serves on the Events Committee.