Mary Sanford '77

"Salem State gave me my career and I need to give back," says Mary Sanford '77, whose planned gift impacts current and future generations of Vikings.

A nursing veteran of over 40 years, Mary entered Salem State financially independent from her parents and worked to pay her way through college. She even took a semester off to earn more money.

"You can't miss a shift because you need the job, but you also need to study for an exam and retaking a class isn't an option," Mary says of the constant stress she felt trying to balance academic rigor with earning a wage.

Mary earned her nursing degree because of her determination and thanks to scholarships from Salem State.

Today, Mary is grateful that she can give back to students in need through a bequest.