Marjorie Thompson, 60, of Providence, died September 15 after a long illness. After receiving her ScB in biochemistry and PhD in biology from Brown, she returned to her alma mater in 1983 when she was appointed associate dean of biological sciences in the Division of Biology and Medicine. In that role, she directed the Office of Biology Undergraduate Education, which oversees academic advising, programs, resources, and curricular development for all biological science programs and students. She also taught embryology, histology, and biological illustration, and maintained close ties with former students. Earning the respect of colleagues for her energy, expertise, and sincere devotion to students, she was recognized numerous times for her unparalleled commitment to teaching and advising undergraduates.
She received the Barrett Hazeltine Senior Class Citation in 1994 and 1996, and the 1998 Onyx Award. In 2009, she received the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching and Advising. Marjorie had many passions outside her work as an administrator and student advocate.
She was a professional musician, songwriter, guitarist, and music educator who released six albums to international acclaim. She also created “biologically inspired” jewelry and was a member of the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators. She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Ian Thompson PhD’79; their seven children; her parents; and two grandchildren. Donations in Marjorie’s memory may be made to Home and Hospice Care of RI, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904.
