James T. Tiedge Memorial Award

Mary Clegg Bridges, Sp ’75
Mequon, Wis.

Mary Bridges’ marketing career has left its imprint on many Milwaukee cultural institutions, including Summerfest and the Milwaukee Public Museum. She finds continued fulfillment in her role as a marketing and public relations consultant by bringing awareness about important issues to the public.

Mary lives the Marquette mission of excellence, faith, leadership and service by helping others navigate their world, whether sharing an idea with a business peer or mentoring someone needing direction.

She prioritizes giving back to her community, and currently serves on the board of directors for the Skylight Music Theatre in Milwaukee. She strongly believes in supporting local arts and cultural organizations so that future generations can continue to enjoy and be enriched by them.

Mary defines success as having an open mind, participating in new experiences, and sharing those experiences with others. She recalls learning from Fr. Thomas Davitt, her philosophy professor, that there were no right or wrong answers. Mary also fondly remembers classes with Dr. Jim Tiedge and Bob Turner, who were smart, insightful and giving to their students. She laughs about a discussion about the “new” concept of cable TV, something she couldn’t comprehend at the time.

Mary says, “To receive an award named after Jim Tiedge is just overwhelming. I had a lot of fun at Marquette, but it was Jim who put me on the academic path I chose. He was a tough professor and I wanted to excel. Jim Tiedge believed in me before I believed in myself.”

Fun Facts:

Name someone (past or present) with whom you'd like to have dinner.
Mary Magdalene. I would like to hear her own voice and interpretation during her life with Jesus and the apostles.

What is one of your favorite Marquette memories?
Arriving on campus the very first day! I received my room assignment at O’Donnell Hall and inherited the best roommate ever, along with a floor of crazy, fun and diversified young women. It was a whole new world for this small-town girl. I still see my friends I met that first day. How special!

Leave a congratulatory message for Mary!