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About Us
Our Mission
At Sista Siesta, our mission is to provide women with unforgettable travel experiences that are tailored to their interests and needs.
We believe that travel has the power to transform and enrich our lives, and we're committed to making it accessible to everyone.
Host & Founder
Dr. Mary Bisbee-Burrows
Dr. Mary Bisbee-Burrows is committed to leaving the world in a better place than she found it by her guiding principle, “She that serves”. Using her leadership expertise, she has used her knowledge to build and uplift communities of color, in particular with empowering women and girls.
As a health and human services practitioner for the last two decades at the New York State Department of Health, Dr. Mary has worked copiously with individuals on self-help strategies, crisis intervention and behavioral health.
In her role as the Chief Executive Officer of the Legacy Drama House, a performance arts/entertainment venue, she provides programming that cultivates and builds the community through exciting initiatives and educational events such as the Economic Empowerment & Entrepreneur Expo, the Melanin Market and more! Dr. Mary is also the creator and visionary of Sista Siesta, which is a rapidly growing international retreat program with the primary focus on elevating women.
Dr. Mary has received several distinct honors for her commitment to community service. This year in 2025 she was named as an honoree for the 2025 ROC Black Business Gala and as recipient for the Girl Scouts of Western New York Women of Distinction Award (2025). Past awards include: the 2024 Rochester Juneteenth Festival- Good & Faithful Servant, Excellence in Ministry Award, both the 2023 and the 2019 Rochester Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated’s Community Service Award, and in 2019 the Phenomenal Woman Award by the Sisters For A Better Black Community.
Dr. Mary earned her doctorate in Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University and her dissertation focused on health disparities and inequities. She also obtained a Master of Science degree and a Bachelor of Science degree from the same institution. She has been married to the love of her life for over 28 years to her high school sweetheart Kenneth. They are both are the proud parents of three children, Maya, Keniya and Bryce.
Why Should You be Sista Siesta'd?
“This trip represented a much needed time of reflection and set up for redirection of next steps. I’m excited for what God has in store as I stand on the shore waiting for my NEW, waiting for my NEXT”
- Stephany Deberry
“This trip has truly filled my cup. I was able to connect with amazing women, teach twerk classes, and leave ready to take my goals to another level”
- Clianda Florence
“This was an awesome experience for me. I am reflecting on this amazing trip, I have several takeaways. I am still soaking it all in. All of the women were amazing, beautiful, intelligent and powerful women with substance.”
- Retha Rodgers
“This trip changed my whole perspective on things and for that I will always be forever grateful for Sista Siesta.”
- Vickie Lamar
“Thanks Dr. Mary for another empowering event. I can’t wait to see what happens in Aruba. Maya you did your thing, thanks for keeping the communication current!
- Sandie Maynard
“This was my first time attending, and I truly enjoyed myself. It was a pleasure meeting the ladies I didn’t know and spending time with the ones I did. This trip was an eye opener mentally and spiritually. I am truly grateful for the opportunity!”
- Latoya Martin
“I treated my 25 year old daughter to Sista Siesta DR, for her birthday last year. We had such an amazing time, I decided we will be attending every year, God willing. One of my friends will be joining us next year as well. The founder, Mary, is just AMAZING. Her and her daughters did the groundwork to make this an amazing experience for the ladies. I know it will continue to grow bigger and bigger and bigger and BIGGER!”
- Keya Siplin-Gordon
“I am full! This retreat was just what I needed. The amazing presenters poured into us and I was able to truly rest, relax & rejuvenate.”
- Ebony Burgess
“Dr. Mary is such a strong advocate for women, her leadership has inspired me and so many others to reach our full potential. She’s created a space where women feel supported and empowered to succeed. I truly appreciate her commitment to lifting up other women. This week I’ve learned so much from 70 beautiful independent, resilient, determined women who are now my Sistas. I am looking forward to seeing everyone in Aruba 2025!”
- Brenda Myers
“I had the most extraordinary time meeting so many extraordinary women. Each of the women poured into my spirit and let me know through their smiles, talks and sisterhood what I need to empty out. For that I am extremely grateful. To all the presenters, each of them filled my spirit until it overflowed in tears. I thank them, we all needed that! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Siesta Sisterhood. Most of all, Dr. Mary."
- Kathi Elliot-Wilder
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