Marie Thermidor Honored as JPMorgan Chase Community ICON
10/23/2025
Riverside Community College District (RCCD) Foundation Development Officer Marie Thermidor has been recognized as the Philanthropic Leadership Honoree at the 2025 JPMorgan Chase Community ICONs awards, held Oct. 2 at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside.
Thermidor was nominated by Cari Gordon, Vice President and Community Manager at JPMorgan Chase, who commended her for her longstanding commitment to service and leadership within the Riverside community.
The annual Community ICONs program, now in its fourth year, drew more than 250 nominees and 30 finalists across six categories, including small and medium-sized business, innovative leadership, community impact leadership, service-oriented leadership, not-for-profit organization, and philanthropic leadership. The awards celebrate leaders whose dedication, passion, and service strengthen Inland Empire communities.
As one of the RCCD Foundation donor liaisons, Thermidor works closely with corporate donors like Chase and other partners to strengthen relationships and advance student success across the district. Her efforts help secure funding opportunities and resources that support scholarships, programs, and community engagement initiatives.
Beyond her work with RCCD, Thermidor is well known throughout the Inland Empire for her advocacy and leadership. She has served multiple terms as president of the National Council of Negro Women, San Gabriel Valley Section, where she championed initiatives uplifting women, families, and youth. Her community service has earned numerous honors, including recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives, State of California, and cities of Corona and Ontario, as well as awards from organizations such as Leading Edge Educational Foundation and 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire.
“The value of education was instilled in me at a young age,” Thermidor said. “As a first-generation college graduate, I know firsthand the challenges that come with financial barriers and limited access to resources. I see many of those same challenges in the students we serve at RCCD. If I can play a role in easing those burdens and helping students realize their potential, then I’m fulfilling my purpose—that’s what drives my passion for this work.”
JPMorgan Chase leaders noted the honorees’ selfless contributions, perseverance, and commitment to community, emphasizing how these leaders inspire others and help build stronger, more connected communities.
Thermidor’s recognition as a Community ICON reflects not only her personal dedication but also the strength of the partnership between RCCD, the RCCD Foundation, and JPMorgan Chase.
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications