A scholarship endowed by Cynthia Maguire ’01, ’03 in chemical science aims to reduce barriers for students at Texas Woman’s University. Maguire's passion for science and desire to help others led her to create this scholarship endowment before her passing July 13, 2024.

Maguire’s interest in the sciences stemmed from a lifelong curiosity. She earned her bachelor’s in medical technology from Central State University in Edmond, Okla., before attending TWU and earning two master's degrees: biology education and chemistry education. She understood the pressure and challenges faced by women in STEM, and she advocated for students in her field throughout her career. She spent considerable time as a faculty member at Texas Woman’s, eventually retiring as Senior Lecturer Emeritus of Chemistry and Biochemistry in 2020.

Nationally recognized as a leader in science education, Maguire was an active member of the Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities (SENCER), serving as Co-Director of the SENCER Center for Innovation–Southwest at TWU and as a SENCER Leadership Fellow. She contributed to the Native Plant Society of Texas and led research projects at Texas Woman’s. Maguire traveled extensively to provide presentations to students using “chemistry magic,” sparking an interest in science in the next generation.

The Cynthia Maguire Scholarship Endowment will reduce financial barriers for students at Texas Woman's University and honor the alumna’s long standing dedication to science education.