Marymount University’s continued momentum is fueled by transformative gifts that elevate the institution’s academic and athletics programs and empower students who rely on scholarships to achieve their goals. In the latest example of this generosity, a recent $1 million donation from Terry Thompson—a Marymount Board of Trustees member since 2022—will make a significant impact on both Women’s Athletics and Honors Program scholarships.
Half of Thompson’s gift will drive growth in Women’s Athletics, addressing various program needs and providing leadership development opportunities for female student-athletes across all varsity teams. The gift will also support extended travel for higher-level competitions, foster team bonding and enhance community service efforts, including deeper engagement with local youth sports organizations.
This investment will move Marymount further into national prominence for female collegiate sports while also inspiring young girls in the area to pursue athletics. Additionally, the gift includes a Day of Giving matching challenge for Athletics over the next five years.
“I have always been a big believer in the student-athlete. Academics and athletics are equally important,” Thompson shared. “Marymount has excellent women’s programs, and through this gift I want to help them thrive.”
Over the last two years, Marymount Women’s Athletics teams have won a combined 15 conference championships. The Women’s Flag Football team also debuted and secured a conference title in its inaugural season.
“This gift will help us continue to develop a competitive culture of excellence, service and leadership for all varsity women’s teams, increase alumni support and provide a shining example for young girls in the area who attend our camps, clinics and competitions,” explained Jimmy McCumber, Associate Athletics Director for Development.
The other half of Thompson’s donation will bolster scholarships for Honors Program students. This investment reinforces the University’s dedication to academic excellence by helping ambitious students pursue opportunities that might otherwise be beyond their reach.
“By supporting Honors Program scholarships, I hope to attract even more outstanding students to join our already talented student body, further enriching the University,” Thompson highlighted.
Established in 2003, the 24-credit Honors Program offers a research-driven, student-focused curriculum featuring faculty tutorials, small seminars and service-learning projects, cultivating a community of intellectually curious students from all majors eager to engage deeply with their studies. With Marymount’s close proximity to Washington, D.C., Honors students can participate in unique field trips and other community initiatives. An Honors Living Learning Community also meets biweekly for personal growth discussions.
Thompson, an Arlington resident, earned her bachelor’s degree at William & Mary and master’s at the University of Tennessee, both in philosophy. During her career, she has worked as a human resources consultant at Hewitt Associates and held leadership roles on multiple boards at William & Mary, culminating in receiving the prestigious Alumni Medallion Award in 2007. She also recently established a scholarship to support the school’s women’s basketball team, which she played on during her undergraduate years.
Since joining Marymount, Thompson has focused on enhancing higher education and stresses the importance of giving back to the community. She was a key contributor to the 2023 Halo Awards, working alongside co-chair Courtney Spaeth to organize the event.
“Terry’s unwavering generosity and deep commitment to Marymount goes far beyond financial support. As a valued member of our Board of Trustees, she plays an essential role in shaping the future of the University,” said Dr. Irma Becerra, President of Marymount University. “We are incredibly fortunate to have her steadfast leadership as we continue to grow and thrive.”
The University plans to implement these funds in the upcoming academic year, ensuring that both Women’s Athletics and the Honors Program will benefit immediately.
“This generous donation will make a Marymount education more affordable, allowing more high-achieving students the opportunity to study alongside our talented faculty while pursuing cutting-edge degree programs,” said Evan Lipp, Vice President of Enrollment Management. “The true value of this donation will be seen in the lasting impact it has on students and their families for generations to come.”
