Barbara Byron

The scholarship fund was established by Barbara Byron to honor the memory of her life partner, who passed away in 2006. Mr. Francis deeply valued education, and was a former student at Saginaw Valley State University. Mr. Francis was the Director of Public Services and Recreation for Saginaw Township since 1978. He was president, chairman, and charter member of numerous city and township authorities and associations.

Mr. Francis was an avid golfer who enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family and friends. He encouraged Ms. Byron to complete her Bachelor’s degree while balancing the responsibilities of a demanding full-time career in the Accounting field. He was very proud of the educational achievements of his daughter, Jerri Lynn Francis Maroney, who completed her Ph.D. The scholarship was established to assist students seeking degrees in Accounting at SVSU.

Ms. Byron is presently an honorary director on the SVSU Foundation Board of Directors.