
Faith isn’t always loud.
Often, it is lived in quiet, subtle ways.
For Martha Ortiz, faith is lived through her steadfast service to the Church.
After a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in portfolio management and trading as a principal of Aronson, Johnson, Ortiz, Martha stepped away to embrace a new season of life. Today, she generously supports the Church and institutions that have helped shape her faith.
For those who know Martha best, they would say that her greatest investments in life have not been confined to the financial markets— they have been in her sisters and brothers in Christ.
Through her generosity, she brings the Gospel to life. By giving her time, talent, and treasure, she strengthens schools that form young minds, parishes that sustain faith, and institutions that nurture community.
Richard Clark, friend and Chair of the Board of Trustees of The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia, sees in Martha a life where faith and service are deeply intertwined.
“Martha’s life is a witness to what love in action truly looks like,” said Mr. Clark. “Through her generosity and faithful service, she has strengthened our Church and community in meaningful and lasting ways. She leads not for recognition, but out of a deep sense of faith and responsibility.”
At her parish, St. Margaret of Antioch in Narberth, Martha serves as a member of the Pastoral and Finance Councils. She lends her expertise thoughtfully, offering insights shaped by years of experience and guided by a deep commitment to the life of the Church.
“Martha is an active and cherished member of St. Margaret Parish in Narberth,” said Rev. Msgr. Paul V. Dougherty, Pastor. “She participates in the life of the Parish in many ways. She is a reader at Mass and a member of both the Parish and Finance Councils. Martha is a constant, generous, supportive presence and adds immensely to the life of our Parish.”
Beyond her parish, Martha generously shares her gifts with The Catholic University of America, The Baldwin School, The Haverford School, Philadelphia Archdiocesan Women's Conference, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, and Catholic Leadership Institute (CLI).
“Martha is extraordinary in her commitment to the mission of our Cathedral Parish in so many ways and her support of its many ministries,” said Rev. G. Dennis Gill, Rector of the Cathedral Basilica. “In an obvious way, this comes from her faith and an incredibly generous spirit. She is a true gift us!”
Daniel J. Cellucci, President & CEO of CLI, “There are few leaders who bring the breadth and depth of gifts to their mission as Martha Ortiz. Martha walks an exquisite balance of being an agent of change, a cheerleader-in-chief, and the quintessential worker bee to each of the numerous charitable causes and institutions she serves. In so many ways, she sets the standard for volunteer leadership.”
In recognition of her exemplary displays of faith and service, we will honor Martha Ortiz at the Women in Philanthropy Award Luncheon on March 26, 2026, at the Inn at Villanova. During the Luncheon, we will present her with the 2026 Love in Action Award. Inspired by the witness of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, this award recognizes a Catholic female philanthropist whose life reflects the beautiful harmony of faith and service We are honored to celebrate Martha’s leadership, generosity, and witness to the Gospel.
Faith may not always be loud.
In Martha’s life, it is unmistakably radiant.
Register today for the Women in Philanthropy Award Luncheon.