Creating Community — and Mascots!

First Light & Life Service Award Honors Lisa Morrow Morten ’76

Lisa Morrow Morten ’76 has a lasting connection with St. Mary’s, where she has generously given her time, creativity, and even the reimagining of the school's beloved mascot — the Turkey! In recognition of her enduring contributions, Morten was named the first recipient of the Light and Life Service Award, an honor given to an individual who demonstrates extraordinary dedication to the school community.

Morten was the Chair of Alumnae Weekend from 1992 to 2015. She has also served as Alumnae Board president, on the Board of Trustees, and has shared her love of interior design while serving on the SMS Beautification Committee. Yet, her most memorable contribution dates back to her senior year, when she and her class of 1976 introduced the Turkey as the school's new mascot.

Before the Turkey, St. Mary’s mascot was a hoop-skirted Southern Belle. But Morten and her friend Crissy Garrett Haslam ’76 wanted something fun and new, inspired by Memphis University School’s short break from their Owl to indulge thoughts of a Buzzard mascot. Unlike the MUS Buzzard, the Turkey has stood the test of time.

The Turkey, who gained the name Tango through a community-wide vote in 2024, has captured students' hearts and even gained national recognition, making it to the final round of voting for the most unique mascot in the country in 2012.

A lifelong creative, Morten majored in art at Hollins College and has applied her design skills to both the Beautification Committee and planning many Alumnae Weekends. As the mother of two alumnae, Meredith ’07 and Anna ’11, she has also contributed to the Parents Association.

“I’ve had the freedom to propose the craziest, most fun ideas,” she said. One of her favorites was a cowboy-themed Alumnae Weekend complete with pony rides.

Morten's enduring love for St. Mary’s is unmistakable. “I love this school. That’s ultimately why I come back. I love how I am still friends with my class, the community of parents you gain when your child is a student, and the connection alumnae share,” Morten said.