Meet your Emcee
We're honored to welcome Mary Susan Buhner as Emcee of our Legacy of Hope Breakfast.
Mary Susan Buhner brings over 30 years of expertise in Development, Advancement, and Engagement, serving both educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. She earned her Certificate in Fundraising Management from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and has held key leadership positions at Indiana University, Butler University, the Indiana University Foundation, Cathedral High School, and the Lawrence Township School Foundation. Currently, she serves as Development & Engagement Strategist at the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre. Her work has driven multimillion-dollar campaigns, elevated donor engagement, and advanced initiatives in student mental health, military services, and diversity and inclusion. She has been recognized with Indiana University’s President’s Leadership Service Medal and the Governor’s Leadership Service Award for her leadership and impact.
Mary Susan has served extensively in volunteer and advisory roles, including: Indiana University Alumni Association Board of Managers, Finance Committee, Chair of Strategic & Planning Committee, The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Indiana University’s Women’s Philanthropy & Leadership Council, and numerous university and community boards. In addition to her advancement career, Mary Susan is known as WXIN FOX 59’s On-Air Parenting & Family Lifestyle Contributor, hosting over 250 live segments reaching more than 150,000 viewers weekly. She has been featured on several podcasts, including A Little Happy Podcast & Hey Girl. She is the author of three books, including Life’s Little GuideBook: Tricks for Leading a Meaningful Life, Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst of Insanity, and The Journey. Passionate about service and advocacy, Mary Susan supports causes that uplift children, families, and communities facing adversity. Outside of her professional and philanthropic work, she is a dog lover, enjoys kayaking, traveling, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. Above all, she treasures being a mom to her three daughters.
