After graduating from Mary Washington, Rodgers (shown here in a picture from 2013) went on to earn a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Michigan. She worked for the American Cyanamid Company and Philips Electronic Instruments, making a name for herself in the field of electron microscopy.
The University of Mary Washington has established and named the Irene Piscopo Rodgers School of Science. Approved by the Board of Visitors at the September 2025 meeting, the naming of the School of Science recognizes the extraordinary gifts of the 1959 alumna, who was a pioneer in her field of electron microscopy and an ardent supporter of students’ continued education and advancement in the liberal arts and sciences at Mary Washington.
Housed in the Jepson Science Center, the School of Science offers a collaborative approach and shared space for innovations and initiatives. It includes the biological sciences, chemistry and physics, and 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,” said UMW President Troy Paino.
A lifetime supporter of her alma mater, Rodgers passed away in 2022, leaving more than $35 million to the University of Mary Washington, far surpassing any prior gifts and establishing the largest one-time fund in the 117-year history of the institution. As a loyal and dedicated alumna, she served on class reunion committees, attended numerous events and stayed in contact with classmates and with her scholarship recipients, often exchanging notes of appreciation and aspiration for their work. Read more.