Dr. Patay has been a year round resident of Mackinac Island since 1996. She received her BA from Miami University in Business Psychology, her MS in Health, Fitness and Wellness from the University of North Dakota and her PhD in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Northern Colorado.
Mary was a finalist in the Michigan Fitness Foundation and the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports annual Governor's Fitness Awards in the Director's Champion for Health category. She has been serving on the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports since 2019 as the chair.
During her time on the Island, Dr. Patay has taught physical education at Mackinac Island Public School. She is currently the soccer, basketball and golf coach for the high school. She is an avid runner and cross country skier, likes to knit, and be active with her family.