The Martha Valerio Scholarship

Overview

Established in memoriam of Martha Valerio, who graduated from the University of Michigan in 1968 with a bachelor’s degree and in 1969 with a master’s degree in Business Administration. Martha, a very successful businesswoman, is remembered as an inspiration as she dealt with challenges head-on. She was an incredibly fierce, feisty woman, who was never to be underestimated. She was also a pragmatic mentor who led by example and was emotionally invested. Martha was a ground-breaking female executive, starting her career at Arthur Andersen, continuing to Touche Ross, and moving on to Northwestern Mutual Life where she retired in 2011 as Vice President. Several of her many accomplishments include: awarded Top 5 Female Executives in the U.S., became first Chief Information Security Officer at Northwestern Mutual Life, awarded Professional Dimensions Sacagawea 1992 Woman of the Year, presented federal disability legislation in Washington D.C. and awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Columbia College of Nursing in 2015. Despite her demanding work, Martha found time to give back to her community including: Independence First, Board Chair and Board of Directors; TEMPO Milwaukee, President; Community Care, Board of Directors; Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development, Board Member; and the University of Michigan Alumni Club of Milwaukee, Board Member. Martha always had a passion for her alma mater, and dedicated time and energy giving back to the University of Michigan community in the Milwaukee area. She helped spread the passion and spirit for Michigan throughout the Milwaukee region, and it continues to live on through the University of Michigan Alumni Club of Milwaukee. As shown by her many achievements and passion, Martha Valerio embodies the Michigan Difference.