Harper College will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.
Mary Boruta filled her life with laughter, hospitality and a deep devotion to family
and community. Her longtime home was always open to
friends and relatives, and her warmth extended into more than 25 years at the Randhurst
Home Depot, where she built lasting relationships with customers and coworkers. Whether
organizing children’s workshops, tending her garden, cheering for her sons at hockey
rinks or enjoying the Northwoods with her husband, Michael, Mary brought enthusiasm
and kindness to everything she did.
Following Mary’s passing in February 2026, her sons—Patrick, Joseph and James—wanted to honor that generous spirit in a way that would continue helping others. All three are Harper College alumni who understand the value of accessible education and the importance of giving back to the community that helped shape them.
Together, they established the Mary Boruta Endowed Scholarship to support Harper students pursuing their educational goals. Knowing how deeply Mary was loved, the brothers invited family members, friends and others whose lives she touched to join them in creating this tribute.
The response reflected the size of Mary’s community and the strength of her impact: 66 donors contributed to the scholarship fund. Because the fund was established as an endowment, their collective generosity will provide support for Harper students in perpetuity.
The scholarship transforms love and remembrance into opportunity. Each recipient will carry forward a part of Mary’s legacy: the warmth she shared, the friendships she built and her family’s belief that helping others enriches the whole community.
Through Patrick, Joseph and James’ thoughtful tribute, Mary’s welcoming spirit will continue opening doors for generations of Harper students.