Mary Seeger

Mary was born in 1940 in Saint Paul, Minnesota to Oscar Henry (O.H.) and Dorothy Green Anderson. She was the oldest of three daughters. She grew up loving being part of the Girl Scouts of America and 70 years later was still active with them. She served as council president, led her own troops and has traveled to many countries including Japan, Australia and Washington DC for reunions with fellow Scouts from various national and international gatherings.

Mary loved school and received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She met her husband Bill while at the University of Wisconsin and they married in 1964.

After joining the Grand Valley State University faculty in 1965 she became aware of inequalities confronting all women on campus.  Under her leadership a study group was formed representing a broad campus constituency. An 18 month period of discussion and surveying produced the 1994 Women’s Climate Study Report.

In March 2000, GVSU and the study’s director, Mary Seeger, were presented with the Progress in Equity Award by the Legal Advocacy Fund of the American Association of University Women (AAUW).  Reading, (especially mysteries), gardening and travel were all special to Mary.  Mary was exceptionally proud of her Swedish heritage and participated in several local, national and international Swedish  organizations.

Mary is survived by her husband Bill, sisters Kathryn George Johnson and Jane Elizabeth El Shami, brother in law Joe and wife Polly. Also surviving are nieces, nephews and many friends.  According to her wishes, a private family service is being held.  Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

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