Donor Stories

The McWethys

Captain Bob McWethy ‘42 and his wife, Maggie Liz, are charter members of the President’s Circle. Since 1995, Bob and Maggie Liz have supported the U.S. Naval Academy and Brigade of Midshipmen through their generous gifts.

 During his service to our country, Bob was instrumental in establishing the Navy’s capability to operate submarines under arctic ice. His military decorations include the Silver Star and Navy Commendation for combat, as well as a Navy Commendation for arctic submarine operations and the Legion of Merit.

Captain McWethy’s retirement career has focused on promoting Navy sailing. He worked with the U.S. Naval Sailing Association, eventually taking the lead in establishing the U.S. Naval Sailing Foundation.

“When President’s Circle started, it seemed like a great way to ‘keep in touch’ after I got too old to sail offshore with the Midshipmen. It has proven to be so! Even though Maggie Liz and I have lived at Lilac Hill, her family home in Annapolis, since 1951, we always look forward to making new friends and seeing fellow colleagues at President’s Circle events.”  

Ensign Ed McGuinnis, USN

Ensign Ed McGuinnis ’08, USN, is our youngest President’s Circle donor. He is from the Chicago area and currently stationed as an electrical officer onboard the commissioning ship, PCU Truxtun, in Pascagoula, MS. His parents have been President’s Circle donors for the past five years and have instilled in Ed the value of giving back.
 
“After graduating from the Academy in 2008, it really hit home how many of the opportunities I experienced at the Academy were the direct result of the generosity of others. I wanted to give back to the institution that gave me so much. Joining President’s Circle provided a great opportunity to do that. My time at the Academy will stay with me throughout my naval career and life. I encourage my fellow alums to support the Academy. Every gift makes a difference.”  

The Lenhams

For Dick and Pat Lenham, moving to Annapolis after living abroad was one of the best decisions in their life. It led them to become intimately involved with a community unlike any other. As friends of the Naval Academy, they quickly carved out a special and enduring relationship with the Midshipmen.

“Having come from a non-military background but moving to Annapolis in 2002 and becoming involved with both the Midshipmen Sponsor Program and the Naval Academy Chapel, we have become strong supporters of the USNA. It is a privilege to be members of the President’s Circle and support the development of our country’s future leaders with our gifts to the USNA Foundation.”

 

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