Marcia Cooley T&G Board Member Spotlight
April 3, 2022
Marcia Cooley
Town & Gown Board Member Marcia Cooley has been connected with Chapman for over 50 years, beginning with “Campus Club” in the 1970s. Living so far from her alma mater, William and Mary, has made Chapman important to her. In 1981, after returning from three years living in Spain, Marcia began teaching ESL at Chapman in their newly-established English Language Institute. She loved teaching non-English speaking students and her association with Chapman for eleven years. She was introduced to Town & Gown by Joanie Smith, wife of former Chapman president, Buck Smith. When the ESL program at Chapman ended, she finished her career in the intensive ESL program at CSU Fullerton. Soon after retiring, Marcia and her husband Bob joined Town & Gown. Their daughter Susie graduated from Chapman in 1990.
Marcia’s board service has been extensive and invaluable, first serving for three years as tour chairman, which included T&G’s only overnight trip, to Santa Barbara. She served as program chairman and then as president from 2011-2013. With Eric Scandrett, she co-chaired T&G’s 50th Anniversary celebration in 2018-2019.
The Planning Team for the 50th Anniversary Celebration – photo by Tony Lattimore
Marcia’s signature development in her current term has been the Legacy Circle, and for years T&G members have enjoyed Marcia’s and Pat Elliott’s lovely floral centerpieces that add a special touch to Lunch at the Forum.
Just one of many beautiful centerpieces created by Cooley and Elliott – photo by Tony Lattimore
She is deeply appreciated by all who have worked with her to promote Chapman University.
Thank you, Marcia!
