Rita Szczotka graduated from Hoover High School in 1976. She was crowned Miss San Diego, Fairest of the Fair in 1977 and a runner up to the Miss California pageant that same year. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance from National University and San Diego State. After 20-plus years in the financial industry working in management positions with top-tier brokerage firms, she started her own business. She operates and is a partner with The Global Partners Group, an international marketing and distribution team for Youth Enhancement Systems.
“The first fruits of my business every month go toward championing other causes — my faith and home church, Horizon Christian Fellowship, as a member of the board of directors for Miracle Babies, and as president of the Miracle Circle Auxiliary,” Szczotka said. “I also work with family services and support a 13-year-old youth in a Thailand orphanage through Mercy Ministries, and contribute to Make-A-Wish Foundation’s W.I.S.H. Circle.
“I’ve been happily married for 18 years to my husband, Michael. Our ‘children’ have four legs and fur coats!”
What brought you to La Jolla?
My parents from Argentina; I’ve been here since age 2 and can’t imagine leaving!
What might you add, subtract or improve in the area?
Add: Love. Subtract: Traffic and homelessness. Improve: The economy.
Who or what inspires you?
First, my faith in Jesus, and secondly, Dr. Sean Daneshmand, founder of Miracle Babies.
If you hosted a dinner party for 8, whom would you invite?
Jesus; Mother Teresa; Audrey Hepburn; my father, George Garcia; Jim Rohn; Richard Branson; Clara Barton and Rose Martinez.
What are you currently reading?
“The Happiness Advantage,” by Shawn Achor
What do you do for fun?
I love giving back, paying it forward, and also to travel and experience different cultures.
What is it that you most dislike?
A lack of honesty and integrity.
What is your most-prized possession?
My faith ~ Jesus.
What is your motto or philosophy of life?
To live a life of gratitude and service to many leads to greatness and fulfillment.
What would be your dream vacation?
Cruising the Mediterranean in a private yacht with a major stop in Capri!
Source: La Jolla Light
