Watch the first episode of our new Leading Lives series:
Reflections, featuring the story of John and Phyllis Newby Thompson ’69
Originally from South Boston, Virginia, Phyllis’s first home-away-from-home was Willard Hall. As she continued to pursue her studies, a boy from her hometown began visiting on a regular basis – and Mary Washington soon became an important part of both their lives. Phyllis became a teacher and John launched a successful business career. Now married 51 years and living on the West Coast, the couple recently made a significant gift to support the Mary Washington student experience.
Leading Lives
For more than a century, Mary Washington alumni have taken lessons learned in the classroom out into the real world to become leaders in their communities and in their fields of study. They have remained connected to their classmates, roommates, and professors while staying actively engaged in networking and mentoring to share their experiences and successes.
Mary Washington alumni lead lives of distinction and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Through the years, many have found ways to pay it forward through their philanthropic support of UMW students and programs. Leading Lives is a new series that showcases the personal stories behind the decision to give back.
What a wonderful video featuring a wonderful couple! Phyllis and John set an example for all UMW Eagles and VT Hokies to follow. They are an inspiration to all of us and we are deeply grateful to you, Phyllis and John! (and Max!)
My education at Mary Washington was a great foundation. The overall quality and preparation of the professors was better that what I found later during my graduate program at another institution. I truly am grateful for the education I received at Mary Washington.
Great Video, Phyllis was my teacher in Shawsville.