The state of Minnesota has been fortunate to have this Grinnellian watching the election practices of politicians for over twenty years. Her work as executive director of the Minnesota State Ethical Practices Board has established important regulations and procedures that guarantee the public’s confidence in the integrity of the state electoral system. She has spent her professional life dedicated to the fair and open practices of government. All of this enthusiasm for government first appeared at Grinnell where she was a history major.

Because of her extensive knowledge of election rules and procedures, this alumna was invited by the U.S. State Department in 1997 to apply for appointment as an election supervisor to oversee elections in Bosnia. In September of that same year, she found herself stationed at a village schoolhouse in the mountains of eastern Bosnia. She lived with a Serbian family and developed a wonderful respect for the country and its people. She worked hard to make sure that ballots were kept secret, counted properly, and kept secure while being tabulated. Her work helped provide a free and open election for this troubled country.

Throughout her career as an elections professional, this alumna has fought hard for the rights of citizens to have access to the political system. She has mentored young people as president of the Minnesota Youth in Government program. She has worked as the co-chair of the Committee on Community Outreach for the International Association of Facilitators. Her dedication to the Minnesota Historical Society led to her being named an honorary council member. All of this from a remarkable woman who started her career at Dayton’s making $1.35 per hour.

The support she has shown Grinnell College over the past 55 years is extraordinary. She has volunteered her time as an Alumni Association board member, Sesquicentennial volunteer, Heritage Chair, and regional events planner. Supporting all of her professional and personal passions for 52 years has been her husband Charles and their three children.

The belief that all government should be fair and open to its citizenry has been a cornerstone of this alumna’s life. Her enjoyment of life and family has helped make this woman a truly deserving Alumni Award recipient. It is with great pleasure that the Alumni Association recognizes the inspiring life of Mary Ann Hursh McCoy, class of 1946