Mary Jean (“MJ”) is a 1979 graduate of Shanley High School in Fargo, North Dakota, and has dedicated her career to serving others through Fargo Public Schools, Umatilla Public Schools in Oregon, the Southeast Education ND Consortium, and First Lutheran Church. The core value that drives her life is service, adding value, dignity, and a sense of belonging to the lives of others, especially vulnerable youth and families. MJ names Jesus as her most influential mentor, whose love and grace inspire her to use her gifts and talents to empower and bring joy to others. She hopes to leave a mark of unstoppable capacity in the minds of those she serves who may doubt their value and to be remembered for placing relationships above any worldly treasure.
