Mary Spencer ‘72
Lifetime Connection and a Lasting Legacy
A&M-Commerce has played an important role in alumna Mary Spencer’s life from her earliest childhood memories. Spencer’s parents were both professors at ETSU, her brother was an ETSU graduate, and she grew up in Commerce. “As a kid, I used to ride my bicycle through the campus, and I always felt like it was an extension of my home and everyday life,” she recalled.
Spencer attended ETSU, was an active member of the Chi Omega fraternity and graduated in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and a second major in art. Through the years, Spencer has maintained a bond with her Chi Omega sisters and with the university. “I was actually serving on the foundation board when the decision was made to become a part of the A&M system,” Spencer said.
This lifetime connection and passion for education led Spencer to include the university in her estate plans, through a bequest in her will. Her gift, once realized, will support the Lift a Lion program and will also establish the Mary Spencer Need-based Scholarship endowed fund. She hopes her gift will give students the extra push needed to graduate, pursue their dreams and make the world a better place. “I love those students who have a passion for learning and leadership and who want to help make a difference in the world. So often, these are the students who haven’t had the same opportunities that I did,” Spencer said.
Philanthropy was an important value in Spencer’s childhood home, and she learned the importance of giving from a young age. “My parents were a huge part of Commerce and the university, so it seemed only natural to follow in their footsteps,” Spencer said. With her parents’ encouragement, she gave a part of her allowance to the church Sunday school program, and she cared for the community’s homeless animals. “If everybody can just do something, regardless of the size, whether it’s a gift or a service, it can make a huge difference,” she advised.
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