Community Recognition Alumni Award

Mary Lu Yardley has made a lifelong commitment to Central Michigan University. Mary Lu is a two-time graduate of CMU holding a Bachelor’s degree in Community Development and a Master’s degree in General Administration. Mary Lu was an employee of CMU for 34 years as the associate director of admissions until 1997 and then as executive director of alumni relations until 2011 when she retired. Her commitment to CMU remains as strong today as it was prior to her retirement.

Mary Lu is an active member of many different community groups and organizations. She has been involved with the Mount Pleasant Area Community Foundation, currently serving as the board president for the Mount Pleasant Public Schools Education Foundation, whose focus is to be a strong community partner with the Mount Pleasant Public Schools to provide reliable, sufficient, and continuous funding to the district so they can better prepare each student to have an amazing life in a perse and changing world. As expected, Mary Lu was able to take a group of well-intended individuals and motivate them to plan events and promote their cause. She is the driving force behind the success of this foundation.

Even after retiring, Mary Lu understands that she represents CMU to any group she is affiliated within the Mount Pleasant community. She brings a positive attitude and a can-do mentality to any event or project. She is a regular fixture at campus events, including those sponsored by athletics, the performing arts, and academic interests.

Another example of her commitment to the community is through Art Reach of Mid Michigan. Mary Lu, a trustee, has been involved with Art-Reach since its inception. As she networks with the Mount Pleasant community, she offers reminders about the events at Art-Reach. She promotes their programs on a regular basis.