Baker University is remembering Martha “Marty” Mather, ’49, a longtime supporter of the university and community leader, for her generosity that spanned more than 70 years. Mather passed away Dec. 6, 2020, at age 93 in Olathe.
In 2017, Baker received a $3.4 million gift from Mather. It is the largest single donation by a living donor in the university’s 163-year history.
“Marty always wanted to make sure her gifts served the best interests of the Baker students. For decades, she was dedicated to our students and put them in position to succeed. It has been a pleasure to witness Marty’s kindness firsthand during my seven years at Baker.”
President Lynne Murray
A daughter of a Methodist minister, Mather attended Baker in the late 1940s and was a member of Phi Mu sorority. In August 2017, Mather became the university’s first Lifetime Legacy Award recipient and earlier that year received an honorary degree for her outstanding support of the university.
An area of Harter Union was named in 2013 the Marty Mather Student Lounge to honor her generosity.
“We had lots of good times. We traveled to Europe and Mexico together. She knew everyone and loved everyone and was very special. She was always dedicated to her church and Baker University. There will never be another one like her,” Eleanor (Mize) Head, ’53, said of her longtime friend.
Written by Steve Rottinghaus, ’14 MSM
