Cynthia Maguire '01, '03

Cynthia Maguire earned her Bachelor of Science in medical technology from Central State University in Edmond, OK, in 1976. She later earned two M.S. degrees from Texas Woman’s University: biology teaching in 2001 and chemistry teaching in 2003. Maguire joined the TWU faculty, eventually retiring as Senior Lecturer Emeritus in Chemistry and Biochemistry in 2020. She created the Chemistry & Biochemistry Scholarship Endowment at Texas Woman’s University, to honor her dedication to science education. This endowment will provide financial support to future students pursuing degrees in the chemical sciences. Cynthia passed away on July 13, 2024, but her love of science and desire to help students will live on through this scholarship.

As a child, Cynthia’s curiosity drove her interest in science. Her passion for chemistry and its real-world applications inspired countless students. As a mentor and advocate for women in STEM, she understood the challenges they face and championed experiential learning and civic engagement. This endowment aims to reduce financial barriers for future female scientists, encouraging them to explore and share Cynthia’s passion.
Nationally recognized as a leader in science education, Cynthia was active in SENCER (Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities). She served as Co-Director of the SENCER Center for Innovation–Southwest at TWU and as a SENCER Leadership Fellow. She also contributed to the Native Plant Society of Texas and led communication research projects at TWU.

In 2016, Cynthia traveled to New Zealand as a wizard apprentice, performing chemistry magic shows for nearly 4,000 students. She continued these shows in Texas to spark interest in science.

The scholarship will support undergraduate or graduate students in good standing at TWU pursuing degrees in the chemical sciences.