Mariann Dana Younger accepts an honorary doctor of fine arts from Dr. DeBow Freed, UF president.

Mariann Dana Younger of Findlay was awarded an honorary doctor of fine arts degree today, May 3, at The University of Findlay’s commencement ceremony, where nearly 800 master’s, bachelor’s and associate’s degrees also were conferred.

“Mrs. Younger is noted for her kind and gracious manner, her thoughtfulness and caring for others, and for her dedicated volunteer service and generosity of spirit,” said Dr. DeBow Freed, University president.

Younger is a committed volunteer for The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum of International Art from Picture Books. She was a member of the first class of Mazza docents and the first Board of Directors for Mazza Enthusiasts. She has been on the Mazza Enthusiasts Board for all of its 17 years.

In addition, Younger performs countless acts of service for the museum, such as meeting artists at the airport and taking them to hotels, and assisting as a group leader at Young Authors’ and Young Artists’ conferences. Her detail-oriented, personal touch is evident as she helps by corresponding with artists and authors and in numerous other ways.

She also assisted in launching and sponsoring the museum’s first Funday Sunday event. Enormously successful, Funday Sundays now attract 300-500 participants. She continues to participate by reading books and telling stories, often in costume.

As an ambassador for the Mazza Museum, Younger was instrumental in initiating collaboration between the museum and WBGU-TV, an affiliate station of the Public Broadcasting Service, where she and her husband, Charles, are also involved. A special program addressing the historical issues of the portrayal of African Americans in children’s books, “Looking for a Face Like Mine,” was a result. Using Mazza’s resources and filmed in the Museum, the resulting documentary was shown nationwide.

A vital part of the arts program of the University, Younger similarly has a continuing interest in literacy and reading in the community. She is active in her church, and a longtime dedicated volunteer who has generously devoted her time and talent to the University.

Younger has a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University. She resides in Findlay, and she and her husband have four sons and several grandchildren.