The Robert Means Thompson Society

What is the Robert Means Thompson Society?
The Robert Means Thompson Society was established in 1996 to recognize and honor alumni and friends who have made a legacy gift to benefit the Naval Academy Alumni Association or Foundation. Since its founding the Society has grown to over 500 members.

Who was Robert Means Thompson?
Robert Means Thompson, USNA class of 1868, is considered by many to be one of the Academy's greatest philanthropists. As a member of the Academy's Board of Visitors in the 1890s, he urged a thorough review of the Academy's physical assets and then he engaged Earnest Flagg to be the architect for the modern Naval Academy, encouraging him to design Bancroft Hall so that it could be expanded. He commissioned the design for the Naval Academy Chapel's bronze doors, paid for them, and then donated them to the Academy as a gift from the Class of 1868. He also vigorously supported the Academy's sports programs, founding the Naval Academy Athletic Association and establishing the Thompson Trophy for athletic excellence.

How do I join the Robert Means Thompson Society?
You are eligible for membership in the Robert Mean Thompson Society if you have named the Naval Academy Alumni Association or Foundation as a beneficiary of a legacy gift vehicle - a will bequest, retirement plan, a charitable gift annuity, a trust, or other planned gift

If your existing legacy intention or planned gift information is not already included in our records, please contact the Planned Giving Office.

If you have not included the Alumni Association or Foundation in your plans and you would like to explore the best options for you and your family, do not hesitate to contact the Foundation's Planned Giving Office. We would be happy to provide a confidential forum to discuss your options without obligation.

Why should I join the Robert Means Thompson Society?
The most important benefit you will receive from joining the Robert Means Thompson Society is the satisfaction of knowing you are making a lasting contribution to the Alumni Association or Foundation in their work in support of the Naval Academy. In addition, it will give us an opportunity to thank you for your commitment and recognize you, with your permission, in our donor reports, and invite you to optional special events.

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