Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2022

School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award - 2012

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2005

About Gerald O. Thompkins

Dr. Gerald O. and Mrs. Treva Thompkins are deeply committed to education. Dr. Gerald Thompkins is an alumnus of the IU School of Education at IUPUI, where he obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Dr. Thompkins earned his doctorate degree from Michigan State University. He is a retired commander from the United States Navy, where he served for 22 years. Mrs. Treva Thompkins graduated from Central State University and the University of Indianapolis, obtaining her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, respectively. Mrs. Thompkins was a teacher and an administrator with Indianapolis Public Schools.

The Thompkins’ joint professional experiences and backgrounds demonstrate their life-long commitment to serving and advocating for students. Dr. Thompkins, within his work in higher education, directs his efforts to empowering first-generation students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The couple established two scholarships within the IU School of Education at IUPUI. The Mary and O’Dell Thompkins Memorial Scholarship celebrates the examples of educational excellence and hard work set by Gerald’s parents. Recently, Gerald and Treva Thompkins founded a namesake scholarship. The award marks their continued commitment to students and education.