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For many at the university, Former Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Executive Director of Partnership Development and Outreach Mary Dunn ’78, EdD was a true example of what it means to be a Viking.
A strong, perseverant and courageous leader, Mary served as a dedicated mentor to her colleagues right up until her passing in January 2024.
A firm handshake and clear introduction—including both first and last name, of course—is often associated with memories of Mary. She taught staff and student admissions ambassadors about the power of networking, the importance of soft skills when entering the professional world and the value in finding purpose, all with an air of tough love and encouragement.
In honor of Mary, former admissions ambassador Erin Mayo ’16 reached out to Salem State alumni, faculty and staff impacted by her legacy. The testimonials showcase Mary’s larger-than-life persona and passion for her work. “Mary embodied Salem State wherever she went, and this is a way for me to give back and celebrate her and her love of her alma mater,” she shared.
“Mary staunchly advocated for second chances for students, firmly believing that even those who faced challenges during their initial college experience deserve another opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities. She emphasized the importance of giving students a chance to prove, not only to others but also to themselves, that they can successfully achieve the significant milestone of earning a college degree.” —Jackie Haas, former director of admissions at Salem State University
“Mary is someone that enters your life and makes a permanent impact. She has that type of contagious energy that brings everyone around her joy, and she also is willing to give you a teachable moment when you need it. For me, that was exactly what I needed as a role model in college. I will always admire Mary for how much she overcame and how focused she was on succeeding in a role that impacted others in such a positive way.” —Alexis Rose Quintal ’13, ’15G, communications and higher education in student affairs majors.
“What started out as colleagues turned into a long and wonderful friendship. When I began my career in admissions, Mary was extremely supportive and served as a mentor to me. I will be forever grateful for her mentorship and friendship.” —Nate Bryant ’87, ’93G, EdD, retired vice president of student success
“For me, there is no Salem State without Mary Dunn. She was a Viking through and through. When thinking about what it means to be a Viking and how Mary embodies those traits, I think of a warrior who fought for students with a fierce passion. Her work ethic and her passion inspired me to pursue a career in higher education. I was fortunate to know her.” —Mike Russo ’15, ’18G, English and higher education in student affairs majors
“Mary’s unwavering support during my pursuit of an MBA and her ability to see potential in others has left an indelible mark on my life. She was the captain, the Viking ship, the mentor, the cheerleader, and the voice of reason, a guiding light that shaped not just my career but also my character. Every conversation we shared meant the world to me, and her wisdom and encouragement gave me purpose. Mary reminded me that when you don’t have a village, all it takes is one person to alter the trajectory of one’s life, and I owe my professional career to her.” —Jovan Sempa ’13, ’17G, MBA
Erin credits the late Mary Dunn with being a valuable resource and mentor since her days as an admissions ambassador.
“Mary always encouraged me to embrace new opportunities, even long after I graduated. With each move, new job, new life update, and everything in between, Mary was there to cheer me on with her regular spontaneous calls checking in. Mary pushed us out of our comfort zone, always believing that we were capable of doing something that we may not have thought we were capable of doing ourselves. I cherished those conversations and am thankful for her mentorship.”
Erin applies the lessons she learned from Mary in her work as an educational professional focused on equity and inclusion. She recently partnered with the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) advocating for the Respond, Innovate, Support, and Empower Students (RISE) Act in Congress. With dedication and persistence, Erin secured Senator Ed Markey’s co-sponsorship of this important legislation, which increases equity for individuals with disabilities in higher education.
“Disability policy is a passion of mine, stemming from my enjoyment of government and being a history major at Salem State. Mary advocated fiercely for students through the admissions process, and today, I advocate for students with disabilities to receive an equitable playing field in higher education. Mary instilled in us life lessons that I will continue to carry with me throughout my life.”