The Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHoCo) is pleased to announce that Thomas Clement and Wonsook Kim have been named Philanthropists of the Year for 2025. This honor recognizes the couple’s outstanding commitment to giving back and their leadership in strengthening the Howard County community.
Thomas Clement is a Korean-born adoptee who came to the United States and built a career as a distinguished inventor, author, and philanthropist. Alongside his wife and internationally acclaimed visual artist, Wonsook Kim, Clement became a historic donor to Howard Community College (HCC) in August 2024, donating $2.5 million to HCC’s Engineering program and student scholarships. It is the single largest donation in the college’s history and will support equipment upgrades and resources to build public and private partnerships in HCC’s interdisciplinary science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programming. The couple has a long history of philanthropic support, primarily in the areas of education, arts and culture, adoptee programs and human services.
“Thomas and Wonsook embody the spirit of philanthropy that strengthens our community,” said Community Foundation of Howard County President & CEO, Melissa Curtin. “Their vision and generosity have created a lasting impact, and we are honored to celebrate their legacy of giving.”
Howard Community College nominated the couple in recognition of their transformational support to expand access to education, enrich cultural life and inspire others to give back in meaningful ways. The college named its science, engineering and technology building in Clement’s honor. The Thomas P. Clement Hall houses programs in life and physical sciences, engineering, technology, and cybersecurity.
“Thomas and Wonsook’s generosity has transformed what’s possible for our students and faculty,” said Anne Johnson, Executive Director of the Howard Community College Educational Foundation. “Their investment in education and innovation reflects a deep belief in human potential and a commitment to building a stronger community where opportunity, creativity and innovation thrive. We are proud to honor them as part of the HCC family and to see their impact recognized across Howard County.”
The award will be formally presented on December 9 at CFHoCo’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City. The Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy is the Community Foundation’s signature event, bringing together community leaders, donors and partners to honor those who exemplify the power of giving. In addition to Clement and Kim, the evening will recognize other outstanding philanthropists, volunteers and nonprofits to highlight the impact of philanthropy across Howard County. Howard Community College is the presenting sponsor of the event. Alongside Clement and Kim, the evening will recognize other outstanding philanthropists, volunteers and nonprofits to celebrate the impact of philanthropy across Howard County.
AWARD HISTORY: Individual/Family Philanthropist of the Year
2025: Thomas Clement & Wonsook Kim
2024: Greg & Roberta Kahlert
2023: Dr. Carlessia Hussein
2022: Dr. Lillian Bauder
2017: Bob & Bach Jeffrey
2016: Fred & Mary Agnes Lewis
2015: Vivian “Millie” Bailey
2014: Ed & Fern Hamel
2013: The Doetsch Family
2012: The Lundy Family
- What: Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy presented by HCC
- When: Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6 p.m.
- Where: Cameo Ballroom, Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City, MD
- Tickets & Information: www.CFHoCo.org/2025-Annual-Dinner