Mary-Margaret Wise Harvey Memorial Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship is established in honor of Mrs. Mary-Margaret Wise Harvey, who dedicated 31 years to teaching 4th and 5th grade students at Richey Elementary in Pasadena ISD, positively impacting the lives of countless students throughout her career. She was certified to teach students with learning disabilities, gifted education, ESL, and specialized reading. Mrs. Harvey had a very unique sense of style and fashion and took great pride in being one’s best self and embracing one’s uniqueness. Students loved her because she always saw the best in them and inspired them to become their best selves.

She retired in 1994 and returned to her hometown of Jefferson in East Texas, where she resided until her passing in 2016. She attended Kilgore Junior College and graduated from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in 1964. In 1979, she received her master’s degree from the University of Houston–Clear Lake City. While living in the Houston and Pasadena areas, she was active and involved with social and professional organizations and became a lifetime member of the Texas State Teachers Association and the National Education Association. She was an active member of the Houston chapter of Mensa, Beta Sigma Phi, and Delta Kappa Gamma. After her retirement, she continued to be involved in civic and social activities in Jefferson.

Throughout our school years, we have had many people touch our lives and encourage us to be the best that we can be. Not enough credit can be given to those who have helped us throughout our long and often strenuous school careers. Most often, the first people who come to mind are our parents, families, and friends—but let us not forget our teachers. Educators are one of the main reasons you will walk across the stage and receive a diploma. We hope this scholarship inspires you to reflect on the educators who have shaped your path and to recognize the lasting impact they’ve had on your life.