An estate gift from the late Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Atherton, a Brescia University alumna who made significant strides in her career at IBM, will enhance educational technology at her alma mater. The donation establishes the H.P. “Pack” and Mary Agnes Atherton Memorial Instructional Technology Endowment Fund, named in tribute to her parents. Income generated from the endowment will support various instructional technology initiatives at Brescia University.
Brescia University President Madison Silvert expressed gratitude for the gift, stating, “We are incredibly honored to be the recipient of not only this estate gift, but a gift that allows the Brescia mission to continue for generations to come. Mary Elizabeth was an accomplished professional who deeply valued education, and through this endowment, she will continue supporting student success and learning for years to come.”
Atherton graduated from Brescia College in 1958 with a degree in business administration. She began her career at IBM in 1959 as an educational representative in the Office Products Division, becoming the first woman to hold that position. Over a 20-year tenure with the company, Atherton contributed to innovations in the field.
After retiring from IBM, she pursued theological studies at Catholic Theological Union and earned a Master of Divinity degree. Among her peers was Robert Prevost, who later became Pope Leo XIV. Atherton also served as a research associate in the nursing department at the University of Louisville until her retirement.
Throughout her life, Atherton remained connected to Brescia, receiving accolades including the Outstanding Lady of Brescia College recognition in 1956 and the Outstanding Alumna award in 1977. The university noted that her estate gift represents her relentless commitment to education and lifelong learning.
The establishment of the endowment fund ensures that her legacy, along with that of her parents, will persist by providing opportunities to enhance teaching, learning, and research at Brescia University for future generations.
