Apply for the Maggie Thompson Memorial Scholarship
January 7, 2026
The Maggie Thompson Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to students in Greater Nebraska.
Over 35 years ago, a scholarship was established in memory of Maggie Thompson, a remarkable woman whose life was a determined fight for independence despite the debilitating effects of a rare form of cancer. Maggie began working at Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska, INC. in Grand Island after graduating from Grand Island High School in 1975. She started as a trainee to build her work stamina—at first, she could only stay up for 20 minutes at a time and needed a bed at Goodwill to rest. Through perseverance, Maggie became Goodwill’s receptionist, moved into her own apartment, and even drove her own car.
Maggie worked nearly a decade at Goodwill before passing away in 1988 at the age of 31. Her parents, Irma and Blaine Thompson, created this scholarship to honor Maggie’s legacy and help others with disabilities live more independent lives—the way Maggie did.
Scholarship Details:
- Applicants must have a disability and a desire to increase independence through education and employment.
- Funds may be used for tuition, books, assistive devices, or other materials that support educational or employment goals.
- Application deadline: February 27, 2026
Apply online: https://goodwillne.org/Impact/Maggie-Thompson-Memorial-Scholarship
If you have students who meet these criteria, please encourage them to apply. Maggie’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of opportunity—we hope to continue that legacy through this scholarship.
Contact eaguilar@goodwillne.org for any questions.