Mary Jane Burke
Mary Jane Burke met Monique Wolanin at a Foundation event some years ago. Monique’s energy and passion for the Foundation came through. At that moment, Mary Jane knew she had to be a part of the Foundation’s team. She joined the Scholarship committee, where she read student scholarship applications, and ensured that when it came time to choose winners, she made sure that students “get what they deserve.” Not only did she award scholarships, she also helped raise funds for them, through events she chaired, like the Golf tournament.
It took no time for Mary Jane to quickly understand the Foundation’s mission. “I think that the scholarships and aid offered by the Foundation is the beginning of life for so many deserving people in our community.” Mary Jane chose to endow one of her own, the Michael F. Davis Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is held dearly to her heart, and the love within it is spread past the walls of QVCC. Our local high school, Killingly High, also has the privilege of presenting this same scholarship to their graduating students. Mary Jane says, “No matter how many times I present Michael’s scholarship, I get so choked up that I can barely speak.”
The characteristics that are displayed within Mary Jane Burke have spread across the Foundation through her leadership, kindness, and generosity. We thank her for all that she has done for us!