2025 Gladys Peeples-Burks Alumni Service Award: Mary Spear

With more than three decades of service to military personnel and their families, Mary Spear has made a lifelong impact through financial education, counseling, and compassionate leadership. A 1980 graduate of Lake Michigan College with an Associate in Business Administration, Mary transferred to Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and was nominated for the prestigious Lumen Christi Award.

Today, Mary works as an Accredited Financial Counselor for Zeiders Enterprises, supporting the U.S. Navy’s Personal Financial Management Program. She has helped service members worldwide navigate budgeting, debt, savings, and financial decision-making which has empowered thousands of service members to build stable futures. In partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, she has conducted financial counseling sessions for veterans suffering from PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries.

Mary’s dedication extends beyond her career. She has organized and run in ultra-marathons to raise awareness for veterans, volunteered in financial education for returning warfighters, and served her church community in countless roles. Her work has earned honors including the AFCPE Financial Counselor of the Year, a Navy Letter of Commendation, and Zeiders’ “Values in Practice” award. At LMC, Mary served as Student Senate President and credits the College with launching her academic and professional journey.

Mary’s career is a testament to the ripple effect of service. Through education and empathy, she has strengthened not only individual lives but entire communities, upholding the highest ideals of leadership and public service.