Title:Gift Funds Scholarships, Catholic Retreats, MSB Initiatives

When Georgetown alumni and parents Paul (I’89) and Rebekah (C’88) Simpson decided to make a $1M gift to Georgetown, they wanted to focus the largest portion on financial aid as they wanted to enable prospective students to have the same opportunity they had received during their time at Georgetown. The Georgetown experience changed their lives in so many ways. For that reason they established the Rebekah M. and Paul H. Simpson Endowed Scholarship Fund.

“Many people helped me have the opportunity to study at Georgetown,” shares Rebekah Simpson. “I’m so grateful for the education I received at Georgetown.”

The couple stayed involved with Georgetown through the years by serving as Alumni Admissions Program (AAP) interviewers, the Georgetown Legacy Society and through helping hoya students as they embark upon their professional careers. Now that their son is a Hoya, they are also serving on the MSB Parents Council.

“Georgetown is a second home to us. We have been very blessed. As you become more established in your life and career, you can help more,” adds Paul.

The Simpsons also designated a large portion of their gift to undergraduate Catholic retreats in the Ignatian tradition. Rebekah recalls going on a retreat when she was a student, as well as taking Father King’s Action and Contemplation course.

“The retreats serve an important purpose for students. In addition to supporting Mission & Ministry programs, we wanted to set up a quiet place on campus for students to sit and rest. We also funded a bench near the Mary statue where we used to go to pray,” explains the couple.

Finally, the Simpson also designated part of their gift to the Undergraduate Program Initiatives in the McDonough School of Business (MSB).

“Being a global citizen is important to our family,” says Paul. “Our son, a current Georgetown McDonough student, spent some time working in Latin America and found it to be a rewarding experience.”