Bloomsburg University Foundation Celebrates Another Successful Year of Giving at Annual Scholarship Luncheon

"The biggest accelerators to your success are the incredible donors in this room." – Dr. Jeff Osgood, Commonwealth University President

Each year, the Scholarship Luncheon not only celebrates how philanthropy is making a real difference in the lives of students, but also allows donors and alumni to feel the tangible effects of their generosity opening recruitment and networking opportunities, and paving the way for future donations.

The event began with live music from student performers, and attendees were given the opportunity to chat, catch up with familiar faces, and get seated. After a brief introduction by Stephanie Ulmer, University President Jeff Osgood and Vice President for Engagement Erik Evans spoke on the remarkable progress made on The Campaign for Bloomsburg, It Starts With Us.

"That kind of momentum does not happen by accident. It happens because of people like you, people who care and deeply invest in our students." – Erik Evans

One of the event’s highlights was the announcement of a new endowed accounting scholarship from alumnus Joe Jacques honoring retiring professor Mike Shapeero.

Jacques pledged $25,000 over five years to recognize Shapeero’s three decades of dedication to students in the accounting program, while also emphasizing the growing importance of the accounting profession in a world of rapidly evolving businesses and technology.

“Mike has played a profound role in continually strengthening the accounting program and motivating students to excel academically and professionally.” – Joseph Jacques ’73

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from a range of student speakers who recounted their firsthand experience receiving scholarships for their hard work. These stories are crucial in not just recognizing the efforts that go into each student’s success, but in proving that the effort makes a tangible difference.

"What I love most about Bloomsburg is the sense of community. From the first day I stepped into a small town, I knew I picked the right place,” said Jace Jarmon, a freshman exercise science major.

"Instead of constantly worrying about the cost of college, I'm able to dedicate more time to my studies, gaining experience in my field, building connections, and helping my community,” stated Veronica DiPasquale, a sophomore accounting major.

"Because someone chose to give, a first-generation African American student from Philadelphia is able to achieve her dream of graduating college." – Torri Singh, Senior Deaf Education/Early Education major with minor in American Sign Language.

The Scholarship Luncheon is a great way for both students and alumni to get involved on campus, and between the speakers, the attendees, student performers, and the excellent food, it continues to be an afternoon of fun and community engagement.