[BIO CONTINUED]

When performance spaces are small or conditions less than ideal, Mary meets the moment with a smile and a solution. Her fellow dancers look to her for encouragement and calm direction when the pressure is highest. She has also served as a Teacher's Assistant and is a member of Beta Club, reflecting both her academic standing and her commitment to service.

Mary was selected for this scholarship because she embodies something rare — the ability to lead without needing the spotlight. At RUMC, she serves in the nursery on Sunday mornings, stepping in wherever she is needed, quietly ensuring everything runs smoothly for children, parents, and fellow student staff alike. She frequently assists with RUMC Kids Sunday School alongside Ms. Sabrina. Those who work alongside her describe the same quality time and again: she arrives, assesses what needs to be done, and gets it done — calmly, sincerely, and with a genuine heart for the people she is serving. She has also volunteered at Vacation Bible School and at assisted living facilities beyond her dance commitments.

Mary's faith story is one of roots and steady growth. Her faith took flight in 2014 when she was baptized and confirmed at RUMC alongside her sister — a moment she describes as transformative. Dr. Ben Mayfield served as her tribe leader during the confirmation process, teaching her life lessons that shaped not just her faith but her sense of being truly known and valued in community. Since then, Sunday Night Youth has become a cornerstone of her spiritual life. She sees God shining through everyone there and describes her faith growing every time she attends.

What makes Mary's faith particularly beautiful is that she doesn't keep it to herself. She invited friends from her dance company to join her at Youth Group — and they have since become members of RUMC Student Ministry. She describes working in the nursery and children's Sunday School as one of the unexpected places where her own faith has deepened, often finding herself learning as much from the children as she is teaching them. Mary lives a transparent Christian life — one where her faith and her daily actions are simply the same thing.

The RUMC Foundation, Inc. recognizes Mary's accomplishments and is proud to honor her as a 2026 Harry L. Hall Scholar.