Mary Carlson Johnson, class of 1958, lived a life marked by faith, kindness, and a deep and enduring love for Waldorf University. Waldorf was not simply a chapter in her story — it was the place where her lifelong journey with William “Bill” Johnson began, also class of 1958, and where her commitment to service, community, and faith took root.

Mary and Bill’s connection to the University became a defining thread in their lives — one that extended not only to their own experiences, but to their family as well. Two of their daughters, Susan Johnson Weigenant, class of 1985, and Sally Johnson Manzano, class of 1993, also attended Waldorf, continuing a proud family tradition and deepening the Johnson family’s bond with the institution. Another daughter, Melanie Johnson Steinkamp, though not a Waldorf alumnus herself, was certainly shaped by Waldorf 's values.

Mary’s legacy at Waldorf extends far beyond generosity. She gave her time, wisdom, and heart in service as a dedicated member of the Waldorf Alumni Council. She remained closely connected to her classmates, encouraged fellow alumni to stay engaged, and embodied what it means to be a lifelong Warrior. Her presence was steady and gracious, her counsel thoughtful, and her commitment unwavering.

Together, Bill and Mary modeled what lifelong devotion to one’s alma mater truly looks like — not only through philanthropy, but through hands-on involvement, mentorship, and faithful advocacy. Bill credits Mary for “pushing him along” and their unwavering love and commitment to each other can serve as an example to all of us.

In recognition of their lifetime of love and service, Bill and Mary were honored in 2024 with the C.S. Salveson Award, celebrating exemplars of the Warrior heart and spirit who influence the very core of Waldorf’s future. During the 2024 Homecoming festivities, the University also dedicated the William (Bill) 1958 and Mary (Carlson) 1958 Johnson Ballroom in the historic C.S. Salveson Hall — a gathering space where students celebrate milestones, attend orientation, and begin journeys of their own.

Dr. Robert Alsop, president of Waldorf University, reflected, “I feel honored to have gotten to spend time with Mary in the last several years. She was a wonderful example of how Waldorf shapes people’s lives. What a gem.”

Ray Beebe, chairman of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Board, added, “I first became acquainted with Bill and Mary Johnson many years ago in my capacity as Chairman of the Board of the Waldorf Lutheran College Foundation Board of Directors. I remember how they made me feel totally welcome at their beautiful home and even allowed me to participate in their daily devotions. Bill and I have become very good friends, and I visit him on an almost weekly basis. Through the years, he has told me many times that the reason he loves Waldorf so much is because that is where he met Mary, the love of his life. Their involvement with and support of Waldorf University can only be classified as ‘amazing.' Along with the entire Waldorf family, Joan and I express our sincere sympathy to Bill, their three daughters and their families.”

Mary’s life reminds us that the strength of a university is found in the devotion of its people — alumni who remain engaged, who serve faithfully, and who carry forward its mission across generations. Her legacy lives on in her family, in the students she inspired, in the community she strengthened, and in the enduring love story that began on Waldorf’s campus in 1958.

Her spirit will forever remain woven into the fabric of Waldorf.