(6-18-26) The St. Marys Community Foundation announced the first recipient of its newly created “Legacy Award” at its annual Scholarship Night on June 10th. The Legacy Award recognizes an individual who has been vital to the St. Marys Community through many years of devoted service, volunteerism, and dedication and support of the Community Foundation’s purpose. It is intended to recognize and appreciate someone who has created a legacy in our community.

The first Legacy Award winner is Mike Makley. Mike served on the Community Foundation Board from 2010 to 2011 before becoming its third Executive Director in the Foundation’s 52-year history. There, he worked tirelessly for 14 years, building scholarship and donor funds, overseeing the investment of the Foundation’s assets and helping it to grow into a $12 million fund, while building relationships and friendships with many in the community. He also has helped to build and implement the Goodfellows organization every year at Christmas delivering good and toys to area families.

This year he was recognized by the St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce as the Outstanding Business Person of the Year.

Mike has left a lasting impression and legacy on the Community Foundation and this city. Mike retired as the Executive Director last August, and has now rejoined the Board of Directors.