Distinguished Colleague
Mary McEvoy (Deceased)
Professor, Department of Educational Psychology; Director, CEED
Mary McEvoy’s professional contributions were many – she joined the University of Minnesota in 1990, she served as director of the early childhood special education program, she directed the Center for Early Education and Development from 1993 to 1999, and she chaired the Department of Educational Psychology from 1999 to 2002. Her research focused on social interaction and inclusion for young children with disabilities, prevention and early intervention for problem behaviors, environmental factors affecting development of children exposed prenatally to drugs and alcohol, and development of efficient tools for describing preschoolers’ development, particularly in early literacy. She was a gifted teacher and an effective mentor and cherished colleague to many. - Scott McConnell
Articles in Tribute
- McConnell, S.R. (2004). Considering the role of individuals in creating commitment, continuity, and dedication in the science and practice of early education and development: A memorial to Mary A. McEvoy (1953-2002). Journal of Early Intervention, 26(2), 80-90.
- Mary McEvoy was 'a bright light' in DFL politics, Star Tribune, October 26, 2002
- McEvoy was voice of women, minorities, Star Tribune, October 29, 2002
- Mary McEvoy, mother, University professor, state Democratic activist, Pioneer Press, October 30, 2002
- [Mary McEvoy] remembered for her scholarly work, neighborhood activism, and singing, Merriam Park Post, Minneapolis, MN, December 2002
- Mary McEvoy made these lives better, Star Tribune, November 4, 2002
- Silenced but not forgotten, Minnesota Women's Press, Inc., November 6, 2002
- Tribute from Robert Bruininks, President, University of Minnesota, Memorial Service, October 29, 2002, Williams Arena
Awards in Tribute
- The Mary McEvoy Service to the Field Award was established by the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) and is given to a parent, community member, or professional who has made notable and significant national or international contributions to the field of early childhood special education. This award is presented during the opening ceremony of the International DEC Conference on Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families.
- The Mary A. McEvoy Award for Public Engagement and Leadership is facilitated in coordination with the Office of the President, University of Minnesota; Office for Student Affairs, University of Minnesota Alumni Association, Twin Cities Student Unions, and the Student Activities Office. This award is given annually to graduate and professional students who display leadership and public engagement which is clearly "above and beyond" one's normal duties and responsibilities. Candidates must demonstrate dedication and assistance that benefit an individual, group or community, or strengthens a democratic way of life.
- The Light a Candle Award is presented to an individual or group that successfully promotes ties between research, policy, and practice to improve the lives of young children in Minnesota and throughout the world. The award was originally inspired by a speech given by the late Senator Paul Wellstone where he talked about the importance of seeing the possibilities that each and every child brings to the world and the role that each of us can play in lighting a candle of hope for that child.