Uncrowned Community Builders

Mary E. Wood was born August 28, 1902 in Des Moines, Iowa to Emmett and Rose Wood. She was educated in the Des Moines Public School System where she graduated from East High School. In 1924 she received her Bachelors Degree from Drake University and continued her education at New York University in New York City, receiving a Master of Arts in Education. In 1968 she received her certification as a Social worker for the state of Pennsylvania.

Mary Wood was the first black woman to hold the position of Executive Director at the YWCA in Buffalo and Erie County. After leaving Buffalo, she held similar positions in several other states. Before retiring in 1972, she was employed as Executive Director for the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She served as a consultant for the National Board of the YWCA after her retirement. While serving as consultant for the National Board she implemented their imperative to "eliminate racism anywhere it exists by any means necessary." She also was consultant for World YWCA and was assigned to the Bahamas to upgrade their programs. After Mary retired she became a speaker for various civic groups.

Over the years, she received many honors and accomplishments. In 1924 she was a charter member, Phi Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a black professional sorority; represented YWCAs of the United States at International Institute, Geneva, Switzerland; Woman of the Year, Zeta Phi Beta, black educational sorority; Medallion, Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge; Outstanding Citizen of New Jersey; Outstanding Community Service Award, Buffalo Urban League; Good Neighbor Award, Board of Community Relations, Buffalo, New York; Alumni Distinguished Service Award, Drake University; Woman of the Year, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.; Distinguished Service Award, USO, Fort Dix, NJ; Who's Who Among Women in the World; September 4 designated Mary E. Wood in Pittsburgh, PA; and the Iowa Women Hall of Fame, 1996.

Mary Wood died on November 29, 1998 in Des Moines, Iowa. She was ninety-six years old.