Mary Alvord honored as Woman of the Year
Burbank Business Journal May, 2004

Burbank City Manager Mary J. Alvord was recently honored by State Senator Jack Scott as 21st Senate District Woman of the Year. Alvord accepted her award in a ceremony in the City Hall Rotunda, surrounded by business associations, family, and friends.

Senator Scott expressed his pleasure at presenting the award to Alvord, Burbank's first female City Manager, during Women's History Month. Past barriers, he noted, cheated us from benefiting from the abilities of many talented women. "Mary Alvord," he said, "has made tremendous and contributions to Burbank. She is a tireless and enthusiastic leader."

Displaying her customary humility, Alvord said she was grateful just to have the opportunity and express her appreciation for the citizens she serves and the wonderful staff members she works with on a daily basis. The award, she said was icing on the cake.

"This is a difficult job," she noted. "We make a lot of important decisions that affect the long-term quality of life in Burbank. This is a wonderful city," she continued, "with the finest executive team, the greatest business people, and the greatest citizens. There isn't anyone in this town who doesn't step up when you need them."

Alvord, who handed off her presentation bouquet so she could hold her granddaughter, thanked family members for their support as well, noting the difficult challenges of managing both family and career.