Dr. Alice Mandanis, a pioneering leader and dedicated educator at Marymount University, passed away on August 2, 2024 at the age of 93. Her work as Provost and Professor left a lasting mark on the institution, and community members remember her as a transformative leader, skilled academic and beloved mentor whose influence will be felt for generations to come.
In 1971, Dr. Mandanis joined Marymount and quickly rose to the role of chief academic officer. During her tenure, which lasted for over two decades, she oversaw the University’s transformation by developing new programs in various disciplines such as behavioral sciences, business, education, humanities, nursing and physical therapy. She also helped expand campus to new sites, including what is now the University’s Ballston Center, and guided Marymount’s transition into a coeducational institution.
“Alice’s vision and dedication helped transform Marymount from a small junior college into the comprehensive university we know today,” said Marymount University President Irma Becerra. “Her development of new programs, commitment to academic excellence and trailblazing role as one of the first women in significant leadership positions in higher education serve as an enduring inspiration to us all.”
Her influence extended beyond Marymount’s campus. Dr. Mandanis served as a trustee at the University of Richmond, Centenary College in New Jersey and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and chaired accreditation committees at 25 colleges and universities in the South. Her commitment to service was also evident through her work with various advisory boards, including the Arlington Free Clinic, Virginia Women’s Leadership Identification Program and Wolf Trap Foundation. Those who worked closely with her remember a leadership style that made a lasting impression.
“Alice was a strong leader to watch and a wonderful person to work for. She made difficult decisions but also had a great sense of humor,” explained Anne Stancil, Chief of Staff in Marymount University’s Provost’s Office. “She hired me after I graduated, and I saw firsthand how she skillfully managed the college’s day-to-day operations.”
“Dr. Mandanis interviewed me and strongly advocated that Marymount hire me, saying, ‘we need some young blood around here!’” added Dr. Linda McKenna Gulyn, Professor of Psychology at Marymount University. “Throughout my first several years as a junior faculty member, Alice would continue to support me as I pursued my development as a professor. She was a true role model, especially for young professional women, and a wise and gracious leader.”
Her impact as an educator is reflected today in the countless students Dr. Mandanis mentored throughout her career. Damon Porter ’94, Chair of Marymount’s Alumni Board, recalled how her guidance shaped his academic and professional journey.
“Her courses were more than just literary studies – they were life lessons in perspective, empathy and communication,” Porter said. “Through her teaching, I learned to appreciate poetry and harness the power of words. She taught me how to persuade, how to command an audience and most importantly how to be courageous in defending my ideas. Beyond the classroom, she mentored me through critical decisions, particularly when pursuing law school. She had an innate talent for inspiring confidence in those she mentored, and that was perhaps her greatest gift.”
A memorial service honoring Dr. Mandanis was held on September 7 at the Sacred Heart of Mary Chapel on Marymount’s main campus. Friends, family and members of the Marymount community gathered to celebrate her life and reflect on her enduring contributions. Her family has graciously welcomed memorial contributions to Marymount’s John P. and Alice S. Mandanis Scholarship, ensuring that her passion for education will continue to benefit future students.
“Alice was not only a leader but also a mentor, guiding countless students and colleagues throughout her remarkable career,” President Becerra said. “Her warmth, intellect and kindness will be remembered by all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire.”
