Honoring a Legacy of Excellence in STEM
About Irene Piscopo Rodgers
The Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program exists thanks to the extraordinary vision & generosity of Irene Piscopo Rodgers, a 1959 UMW alumna who dedicated her life to advancing scientific excellence and opening doors for future generations of STEM scholars.
Irene’s journey began at Mary Washington, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry before going on to complete a master’s degree at the University of Michigan. She built a distinguished career in electron microscopy, working for the American Cyanamid Company and Philips Electronic Instruments, where she met her husband, James “Don” Rodgers, who hired her at a time when few women worked as scientists.
Throughout her career, Irene never forgot how Mary Washington had “opened worlds” for her, and she was determined to ensure that future students would have the same transformative opportunities.
A Lifetime of Giving
Irene’s commitment to UMW and its students spanned more than four decades, beginning with a $50 gift in 1980. Her generosity grew steadily over the years, always focused on enhancing STEM education and research opportunities. In 2004, she donated a transmission electron microscope to the University and personally trained students and faculty to use it. A decade later, UMW honored her with a Doctorate of Humane Letters for her service and contributions. She created eight Alvey Scholarships providing full tuition, fees, and room and board for out-of-state students, and named scholarships and a microscopy lab after her late parents, Justin and Helen Piscopo. Her final gift, combined with lifetime giving, totals nearly $39 million to Mary Washington.
Impact on Students
By the time of her estate gift, nearly 100 students have benefited from Irene’s generosity through various scholarships, research fellowships, and conference travel grants. She maintained close relationships with many recipients, following their progress through graduate school and into their careers.
As Hannah Checkeye ’21, an Alvey Scholarship recipient who pursued medical school, said: “Irene made it possible for me to go to Mary Washington and complete my pre-medical education. She changed the lives of so many students.”
Ally Fletcher ’25, also an Alvey Scholar, calls Irene “a fantastic lady” and expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities her scholarship has provided.
The Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program
Through her unprecedented final gift, Irene has ensured that her legacy will continue to transform lives for decades to come. The Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program represents the culmination of her vision: a comprehensive, four-year program designed to nurture exceptional students in biology, chemistry, computer science, earth and environmental sciences, mathematics, and physics as they become productive research scientists.
As President Troy Paino noted, “This unprecedented donation guarantees that exceptional students will continue to have access to a UMW education that delivers the kind of high-impact learning experiences that Irene valued so much.”
A Lasting Legacy
Irene’s gift establishes UMW as one of the premier institutions in Virginia—indeed, in the country—for undergraduate STEM research. Her vision ensures that Mary Washington graduates will continue to be highly prized by employers and graduate schools, carrying forward her legacy of excellence in science and dedication to opening worlds for others.
The Piscopo Rodgers Science Fellows Program stands as a testament to one woman’s belief in the transformative power of education and her commitment to ensuring that future generations of scientists have every opportunity to succeed.