The Levin College of Public Affairs and Education proudly recognizes Mary Hansard as its Fall 2025 Valedictorian and Cleveland State University’s Commencement Speaker. Mary’s story reflects resilience, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to service, qualities that define the mission of Levin College. 

Mary was born and raised in Cleveland and grew up in Ohio’s foster care system. At eleven years old, she made the difficult decision to remain in foster care so her family would not be burdened and so she could pursue her dream of earning a college education. That decision shaped her independence and determination. 

Today, Mary is a Mathilde Jane Gutow Endowment Scholar, a former Sullivan-Deckard Scholar, and an active-duty Sergeant in the United States Army. While serving her country, she has maintained Dean’s List honors every semester since 2021. Her military career includes Certificates of Achievement for Academic Excellence, Good Conduct Medals, Army Achievement Medals, and the National Defense Service Medal. She has led soldiers, managed operations, and completed advanced leadership training across the country, while excelling academically. 

Mary’s commitment to service extends beyond the military. From 2022 to 2024, she became a licensed foster parent, caring for high-risk youth and offering them the stability she once longed for.  

At CSU, Mary learned inside and outside of the classroom including her role as a marketing assistant, helping coordinate a campus safety program video to promote student safety and engagement.  

Looking ahead, Mary plans to continue serving her country and, when her military service comes to an end, she hopes to pursue opportunities in public service to keep giving back to her community. Her goal is to inspire others, especially foster youth and nontraditional students, to believe in their potential and never give up on their dreams. 

Reflecting on her achievement, Mary shared: “Being selected as Valedictorian means the world to me. It recognizes the hard work, dedication, and perseverance I have demonstrated while overcoming adversity and allows me to inspire others, especially youth from foster care or nontraditional backgrounds, to believe in their potential.” 

Dean Jill Gordon praised Mary’s accomplishments, stating: “Mary exemplifies the values of Levin College through her commitment to public service, resilience, and leadership. Her journey is inspiring, and we are proud to see her represent our college and the university at commencement.” 

Mary’s selection as Levin College Valedictorian and University Speaker honors her academic excellence and her unwavering dedication to leadership and service. As she addresses her fellow graduates, Mary will represent the very best of Levin College: a commitment to public service and community impact.