Retired Faculty & Staff

Director of Housekeeping Mary Abbott's dedication has touched every inch of every academic space on campus over the past 33 years

When she arrived at McDonogh in 1993, Ms. Abbott immediately got to work making sure that everything was free of dust, debris, grease, and grime. It was, and is, a never-ending battle. For more than three decades, she has led a dedicated team of housekeepers who work around the clock, making classrooms shine and hallways gleam. As new buildings were added to campus, her responsibilities and staff grew accordingly, and she managed these changes with expertise. At the same time, she cared for her housekeepers like family — invested in their success and happiness.

Ms. Abbott's dedication to her role was never more evident than during the COVID-19 pandemic. In February 2020, as the virus approached, she stepped up efforts to clean and disinfect campus, seeing that every classroom, office, and common space was stocked with hand sanitizer. And under her direction, when School reopened, her team worked tirelessly to make sure all spaces were sanitized regularly and that disinfecting supplies were available when and where they were needed.

Ms. Abbott credits McDonogh with "changing the entire trajectory" of her life. Shortly after she arrived, her daughter, now a physician, started school here, and in spring 2026, as one grandchild graduates, another looks forward to entering prekindergarten.

Mary, we are grateful for all that you have done for McDonogh for more than three decades. We look forward to continuing to see you on campus for years to come, but now in the carpool line and at Grandfriends Day.