Mary P. Allen
-
- Hometown:
- Evanston, Ill.
-
- High School:
- Evanston Township
-
- Team:
- Director of Women's Physical Education
Growing up in Evanston, Illinois, Mary participated in basketball
and field hockey at Evanston Township High School. A
photographer for the school newspaper, she was also involved in
athletics through the Evanston Recreation Department.
Mary attended Northwestern University and was very active in numerous athletic and social organizations. She participated in field hockey, volleyball, track, swimming, basketball, and tennis. A member of Alpha Phi sorority, she was also involved with the physical education club, the Y.W.C.A., the Purple Parrot Circulation Staff, the Purple Parrot Drive, and the Gold Lantern.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 1926, Mary accepted a position at Miss Harris' school in Chicago, where she taught physical education. In 1927, she became an Instructor in English and Director of Physical Education for Women at Lake Forest College. An advisor to the Women's Athletic Association, she was also the director of the women's intramural program. After a five year career at the College during which she coached field hockey, tennis, and basketball, Mary became very active in the Lake Forest community.
President of the Y.W.C.A. in Lake Forest, Mary, along with her husband Waldo, started a youth council known today as CROYA. The Allens provided the funding for the CROYA building. A lifelong member of the Lake Forest Presbyterian Church, Mary was president of the Women's Guild, originated the teachers' suppers, and taught for many years. Throughout her life she continued her involvement in athletics as an avid tennis player.