Supporting Determined Students Who Strengthen Their Families and Their Future

Honoring a Life of Leadership, Service, and Devotion to Family

The Muriel E. Gilman Memorial Scholarship celebrates the extraordinary life of a woman whose leadership, generosity, and commitment to community transformed countless lives across Delaware.

A pioneering professional woman, Muriel entered the workforce in an executive capacity in 1962, breaking barriers in a male-dominated era. She later devoted 23 years to United Way of Delaware (1966–1988), serving as a respected management executive before continuing her work in retirement through board leadership and community service. True to her words — “I’m retiring from United Way, not from the community” — Muriel remained deeply engaged in educational, social service, health, and governmental organizations throughout her life.

Her service to Goldey-Beacom College was equally impactful. In 1986, Muriel received an Honorary Degree in Public Administration. She joined the Board of Trustees in 2003 and served as Chair of both the Development Committee and the Academic & Student Life Committee, championing access to education and student opportunity. Muriel believed deeply in empowering individuals — particularly women balancing professional aspirations with family responsibilities — to build secure, meaningful futures.

Established in her memory, this scholarship provides a $1,000 tuition award to a full-time, nontraditional student pursuing any Bachelor of Science program at Goldey-Beacom College. The award is need-based and requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. high school or college GPA. Preference is given to a Delaware mother balancing the demands of work, family, and education. The scholarship is not renewable.

Muriel’s life was devoted to strengthening families and uplifting communities. Through this scholarship, her legacy continues — supporting determined students who are investing in themselves not only to advance their own futures, but to create stability and opportunity for those who depend on them.

Your gift honors Muriel’s enduring belief that education changes lives, families, and communities for generations to come.