Three rooms in the new Center for the Arts have been named in honor of generous friends of the University. They are

Thompson Theatre

This proscenium theatre is named in honor of Wilhelmina Press Thompson, an alumna, former employee and loyal supporter of the University for many years. When she died in 2002, Mrs. Thompson left a bequest of $4.1 million toward construction of the Center for the Arts.

In 1941, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and in 1957 earned a master’s degree in education, both from UD. As an undergraduate, she often was involved in E-52 Student Theatre productions.

Mrs. Thompson was an English teacher at Caesar Rodney High School in Camden-Wyoming, Del., and also was employed at the University Alumni Office, Wilmington Public Schools and the Delaware State Arts Council.

Gore Recital Hall

The recital hall is named in honor of Genevieve “Vieve” W. Gore, who died in 2005. A longtime friend and benefactor of UD, she and her late husband, Wilbert, founded W. L. Gore & Associates, which grew into a successful global corporation that developed thousands of innovative products.

In 1983, Mr. and Mrs. Gore were awarded the University’s Medal of Distinction. In 1995, Mrs. Gore and her son, Robert Gore, EG ’59, and his wife, Sarah, CHEP ’76M, made a $17.5 million gift to the University for a new classroom building. Gore Hall, which stands on The Green, was dedicated in 1998.

Mrs. Gore was involved in numerous social and civic activities, including Delaware Community Services, Goldey-Beacom College, American Field Service, Girl Scouts President’s Advisory Council and Winterthur Museum.

Puglisi Orchestra Hall

The Puglisi Orchestra Hall is named in honor of the parents of Donald J. Puglisi, John F. and Josephine G. Puglisi, avid supporters of music education.

Donald Puglisi, MBNA America Professor Emeritus of Business, joined the University faculty in 1971 and retired in 2001. During his tenure at UD, he received the University’s Medal of Distinction and numerous honors for his teaching.

He has served as a member of the Delaware Public Service Commission, was a recipient of the State of Delaware Order of the First State Award and is a trustee of the Delaware Art Museum and a director of the Delaware Council on Economic Education.