University of Mary Washington names the Irene Piscopo Rodgers School of Science in honor of electron microscopy pioneer
The University of Mary Washington has named the Irene Piscopo Rodgers School of Science in honor of electron microscopy pioneer and 1959 alumna.
Rodgers, who passed away in 2022, leaving more than $35 million to the university, supported students’ continued education and advancement in the liberal arts and sciences at Mary Washington. She served on class reunion committees, attended events, and remained in contact with classmates and scholarship recipients.
The School of Science is housed at the Jepson Science Center and offers a shared space for innovators and researchers in the biological sciences, chemistry and physics, earth, and environmental sciences.
“Irene’s generosity ensures that our students will continue to explore, discover and lead in the sciences for generations to come,” says Troy Paino, President at Mary Washington.
“Irene inspires our students in so many ways, from being a role model over decades to encouraging the next generation of scientists to complete their first experiment, work closely in a lab or head into the field alongside our talented and dedicated faculty,” adds Katie Turcotte, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement.
“The Irene Piscopo Rodgers School of Science is a powerful reminder that discovery begins with curiosity and courage, but that there’s always someone cheering you on, blazing the trail and walking with you on your journey at Mary Washington.”
Rodgers earned a degree in chemistry from the university, followed by a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Michigan. She then worked for the American Cyanamid Company and Philips Electronics Instruments.
Over her lifetime, Rodgers contributed more than $45 million to the University of Mary Washington in gifts and scholarships. Her gifts have funded 115 students with research fellowships, scientific presentation grants for conference travel, and other awards.
“That amount is unparalleled at an undergraduate institution – on par with funding at Research 1 institutions, but dedicated to undergraduates, who will gain the experience of hands-on research, working side-by-side with faculty on solutions they care about. UMW students have an opportunity that can’t be found anywhere else,” adds Mary Washington Provost Tim O’Donnell.
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