Mariah Kennedy Cuomo represents the convergence of two of America’s most prominent political families. Yet, she has forged a path uniquely her own, blending a deep commitment to public service with a modern entrepreneurial spirit.
As an activist, communications strategist, and newlywed, her story is one of inherited legacy and self-driven ambition.
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A Daughter of Two Political Dynasties
Born into a world of political influence, Mariah’s heritage is a significant part of her identity. She carries the legacy of two powerful families who have left an indelible mark on American history.
The Kennedy Legacy
Through her mother, Kerry Kennedy, Mariah is the granddaughter of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Kennedy. This lineage connects her directly to a family celebrated for its dedication to civil rights and public service.
The connection makes her the grandniece of President John F. Kennedy, linking her to one of the most iconic figures in American political history.
The Cuomo Heritage
On her father’s side, she is the daughter of Andrew Cuomo, the former Governor of New York. Her grandfather, Mario Cuomo, also served as the Governor of New York from 1983 to 1994.
This multi-generational legacy of leadership within the state has shaped her understanding of public service and governance.
Education and Early Career Development
Mariah’s academic journey laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Her education at prestigious institutions provided her with the knowledge and network to pursue her goals.
From Deerfield Academy to Brown University
After graduating from the esteemed Deerfield Academy, Mariah continued her education at Brown University, an Ivy League institution. This choice was pivotal, not only for her academic growth but also for the personal connections she would make.
It was during a college visit to Brown in 2012 that she would first meet her future husband, Tellef Lundevall.
Academic Excellence and Campus Involvement
In 2017, Mariah graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor’s degree in History. During her time at Brown, she was an active member of the campus community.
She wrote for the Brown Daily Herald and served as a communications analyst for the Brown Entrepreneurship Program, experiences that would prove valuable in her future career.
Professional Journey and Entrepreneurial Success
Building on her academic foundation, Mariah has cultivated a dynamic professional career. Her path reflects a blend of strategic communications and a drive to innovate in the digital age.
Early Career Experiences
Her early career included a role as a senior associate at Teneo, a global CEO advisory firm. This experience provided her with valuable insights into the world of high-level corporate strategy and communications.
Working with top executives gave her a unique perspective on the challenges leaders face in an increasingly connected world.
Founding Socrates Social
Today, Mariah is the Founder and CEO of Socrates Social, a next-generation executive communications firm. The company specializes in providing social media advisory services to top global leaders.
Her firm helps executives navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, positioning them effectively across various social media platforms. This venture showcases her ability to identify emerging needs in the business world and create innovative solutions.
Activism and Public Service
True to her family’s legacy, Mariah has demonstrated a strong commitment to social causes. She has actively engaged in human rights advocacy and public health initiatives throughout her career.
Human Rights Advocacy
Mariah volunteers for the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights non-profit, an organization founded by her grandmother, Ethel Kennedy, in 1968. The organization was established just months after the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
Her involvement continues the family’s long-standing dedication to advancing human rights globally, carrying forward a mission that has defined the Kennedy family for generations.
COVID-19 Public Health Initiative
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020, Mariah stepped up to serve her community in a meaningful way. She worked as a volunteer with the New York Department of Health on an innovative public engagement initiative.
She launched a program that encouraged New Yorkers to create their own 30-second public service announcements about the importance of wearing face masks. The winning submission was selected through public voting and aired on television, demonstrating her creative approach to public health communication.
Personal Life and Recent Milestones
Beyond her professional and public life, Mariah’s personal journey has also captured public interest. Her recent marriage marks a significant and joyous milestone in her life.
Meeting Tellef Lundevall
Mariah’s love story with Tellef Lundevall began during a college visit to Brown University in 2012. Tellef had developed a close friendship with two of Mariah’s cousins, Kate Kennedy and Amanda Cole, while they were all students at Brown.
Their connection deepened over the years, with the couple dating for more than five years before Tellef proposed. The engagement took place in Sicily in November 2023, a location chosen to honor Mariah’s grandmother Matilda Cuomo’s Italian heritage.
The Kennedy Compound Wedding
In July 2024, Mariah and Tellef were married in a beautiful ceremony at the iconic Kennedy Compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. The waterfront wedding, attended by 400 guests, was a celebration of love and family.
Mariah wore a stunning strapless Italian tulle gown by Vera Wang for the occasion. The ceremony took place on the lawn overlooking Nantucket Sound, with her father Andrew Cuomo proudly walking her down the aisle.
The three-day celebration included a sailing race, the wedding ceremony, and a farewell brunch. The event blended traditions from both the Kennedy and Cuomo lineages, with meaningful touches honoring both families. The couple married under a chuppah that incorporated elements from their diverse backgrounds, including wood from Ireland, Italy, Norway, and New York.
Looking Forward
Mariah Kennedy Cuomo’s journey is a compelling narrative of a young woman embracing a profound legacy while carving out her own identity. As an entrepreneur, activist, and leader, she continues to build upon her family’s history of service.
She brings a fresh perspective to the challenges of our time, combining traditional values of public service with modern innovation in communications and business. Her story is far from over, and many are watching to see what she will accomplish next as she continues to make her mark on the world.
