By Sadie Guffy
Starting my journey at RUTH was special from the very first day. I knew this role held a unique significance, not just because of the talented team behind it but also because of its namesake — Ruth Edelman.
Ruth was a powerhouse within the Edelman agency, renowned for her advocacy and compassion. She didn’t just work for the business; she championed numerous civic and mental health projects while tapping her remarkable interpersonal skills to make a meaningful difference.
Recently, we had the honor of welcoming Ruth’s children, Renée and John Edelman, along with her former assistant, Mara Berger, to share their stories and reflections about Ruth as a leader and a person. At a staff event hosted by RUTH President Rana Komar, each of them shared a personal perspective on the three themes that defined Ruth’s legacy: kindness and generosity, mental health advocacy, and devotion to family.
John spoke about his mother’s kind heart and generosity, recounting how she made people feel like they were her best friends. Ruth was known for her ability to truly listen to others’ problems and offer genuine counsel, creating a profound sense of connection and support. Her empathy and warmth left an impact on everyone she met, shaping a legacy of kindness that still resonates throughout the Edelman community.
Mara shared insights into Ruth’s deep commitment to mental health advocacy. She organized meetings with U.S. Senators, business leaders, and philanthropists to secure support and funding for mental health research and education. Ruth’s dedication to this cause went beyond her business interests—she believed in a future where mental health would be prioritized and treated with the respect it deserved. Her advocacy paved the way for important conversations and demonstrated the power of using one’s influence for meaningful change.
Renée, Ruth’s daughter, shared memories of her mother as a devoted caregiver who championed her three children, Richard, Renée, and John. She spoke movingly of how, when she contracted rheumatic fever at age eight, Ruth chose to care for her at home for six months instead of sending her to La Rabida Children’s Hospital. This story highlighted Ruth’s unwavering love and selflessness, reminding us that her commitment to those she cared about extended far beyond the professional sphere.
As we gathered in the conference room, each of us found a sheet of paper on the table—Ruth’s “Top Tips for a Purposeful Life.” It was a powerful list that offered a glimpse into her philosophy and the principles she lived by:
Each of these tips radiated a sense of connectivity and purpose. As Renée, John, and Mara spoke, they emphasized how Ruth not only upheld these principles but actively encouraged others to do the same. She used her connections to support those who couldn’t speak for themselves, demonstrating that true leadership is about empowering and uplifting others.
One piece of advice, in particular, struck a chord with me: Every day is a gift. It’s a simple reminder, yet it embodies a deep appreciation for life and the importance of living with intention. Ruth’s words and actions have left a legacy that continues to inspire all of us at RUTH. Her life’s work reminds me that every day brings new opportunities to connect, to support, and to strive for the best in ourselves and others.
Hearing these touching stories from Renée, John, and Mara further solidified the strong feeling of family within the Edelman community. Their reflections on Ruth’s values and the genuine love and respect she held for her colleagues made me realize how deeply her legacy continues to shape the organization. Working at RUTH, I feel inspired to uphold these same values—dedicating myself to impactful work, supporting others, and building lasting connections. Starting my career in an environment like this has been an incredibly grounding experience, and I’m grateful to be part of a company where legacy, purpose, and people truly come first.
Sadie Guffy is a graduate student in DePaul University’s acclaimed