Dear Alumni and Friends,
Spring is such a special season at the University of Mary Washington. The air is filled with energy and excitement as we celebrate our UMW men’s basketball team winning its first-ever national championship, beloved traditions like the 100th anniversary of Devil-Goat Day, and, of course, Commencement. I also recently enjoyed the Scholarship Luncheon and Student Showcase, where we witnessed the impact of your generosity firsthand and heard how you’ve made a UMW education a reality for so many students.
Soon, each new graduate of the Class of 2026 will begin a bright future shaped and supported by your belief in them and by your thoughtful investments in Mary Washington. One example is Evan Fletcher ’26, a veteran majoring in biology and preparing for a future career of continued service to his country, thanks to a scholarship created by the late Col. Patricia Hess Jernigan ’64. Likewise, Sallie Galloway Gill ’65 and her husband, George, have given back to her alma mater, establishing a scholarship to ensure that those who have served our nation and their families have access to a transformative education at UMW. I hope you feel inspired by their stories.
Thank you for remaining forever true to our students and to the University of Mary Washington.
Troy D. Paino
President
This letter originally ran in the Spring 2026 Gift Planning Connections newsletter.
