Mary M. Thompson
Mary M. Thompson represented the dairy industry for the St. Louis Dairy Council for over 23 years (1985-2007), working in the 19 counties of Central Missouri. She spread the word of the importance of dairy foods in diet to thousands of centers of influence, including teachers, health professionals and consumers. Thompson’s work was characterized by tireless dedication, genuine enthusiasm, and the utmost professionalism. She did more than simply “work” her territory, she thrived on building personal relationships with people who viewed her as a trusted nutrition education professional. She was likeable, loyal and dependable, and she portrayed the local dairy industry in the same light.
A former supervisor commented “Among the dedicated professionals I have worked with, Mary stood head and shoulders above most, not only in her intelligence and commitment, but also in her ability to function as a supportive team player. Her ability to communicate clearly and to project an open, friendly persona to others, regardless of their level of expertise, made her an exceptional mentor to many staff members of Dairy Council.”
Thompson taught new staff members of Dairy Council important techniques on handling people. She gave practical tips on everything from how to share the spotlight with a dairy cow during an on-farm TV interview, to how to convince a teacher to stay after school for a meeting.
Her office location in Columbia allowed her to be close to the action in Jefferson City, and it was her ability to work with others that helped keep local dairy promotion efforts front and center throughout the state. She served on numerous committees, including the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health, and the Missouri Coordinated School Health Coalition. She promoted the concept that dairy foods are important components of meals at schools.
Thompson attracted and audience of thousands of viewers via guest appearances on KOMU-TV. She gave practical advice about the health benefits of dairy foods. She participated in hundreds of radio interviews where she recognized contributions of the dairy industry to the personal health and economic well-being of citizens of Missouri and neighboring states.
Producers liked and respected Mary Thompson for her effective efforts on their behalf. She willingly attended meetings of producers, an effort that made them feel good about their investments in the promotional programs she represented. Of particular note was the popularity of her radio shows co-hosted with Cletus Koerner.
Thompson’s principle nominator, Margie Cook Graham, wrote: “Since 1932, St. Louis District Dairy Council has proudly promoted dairy foods through their representatives known as the “The Nutrition Education People.” Mary exemplified that vision, and we continue to benefit from the strong network of dairy supporters she helped to build during her 23 years with the organization.”
Mary earned Bachelors and Masters of Science Degrees from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She taught at Fontbonne University in St. Louis and the College of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of Missouri. She was married to Warren A. Thompson (deceased). Their children are Russell (Mary Beth), Wyatt (Stacey) and Sara.