"We want to pay it forward. We loved our experience at Bloomsburg.” – Vickie Feinstein

Scott ’81 and Vickie Feinstein ’83, two Bloomsburg graduates, were looking for the right place to make a difference for Bloomsburg students.

Scott and Vickie's story began at Bloomsburg, where their paths crossed through a shared connection to campus life. Vickie was active with CGA, Scott competed on the Track Team, and both left their mark on Schuylkill Hall, each serving as its president at different points in time.

But what kept Scott and Vickie connected was their gratitude towards the foundation that Bloomsburg provided in their lives. When the time was right to give back, a video about the ASL program on the University website sparked their interest and inspired them to learn more.

Neither Scott nor Vickie had any experience in American Sign Language or the Deaf community before making their first gift, but by choosing this historically smaller program, they’ve created more opportunities for Bloomsburg’s ASL and English Interpreting majors.

The Feinstein Family American Sign Language Endowment not only embodies the gratitude involved in philanthropy but also the strategy and payoff when finding the right area to support.

Since 2018, Scott and Vickie's generosity has powered billboard campaigns that raise community awareness and aid in student recruitment, the annual ASL Immersion Weekend, which offers students a sign-only experience designed to improve their skills while fostering a deeper connection with the Deaf community, and financial assistance offsetting the high cost of taking national certification exams that launch students into their careers.

“We couldn't be more grateful for the support of dedicated alumni like Scott and Vickie,” said Jerome Dvorak, Executive Director of the Bloomsburg University Foundation. “Their commitment to Bloomsburg and its students is one to be admired, and their support will have a lasting impact on the ASL English Interpreting Program for years to come.”

Scott and Vickie stay heavily involved with events both on and off campus, most recently visiting the Bloomsburg campus in March of 2026 for the Biennial Bloomsburg Interpreter Club Conference.

"They're so kind, they're so generous. And I'm so excited to see them again for ASL Immersion Weekend,” said Amanda Ash, a junior in the ASL Program.

Dr. Jessica Bentley-Sassaman, Professor in the ASL/English Interpreting Program, said, “Scott and Vickie are a complete blessing.”

She specifically noted the pair’s involvement with the ASL Immersion Weekend, citing their support as a major pillar of students’ experience with Bloomsburg’s program.

"That weekend is a great marketing opportunity,” Bentley Sassaman added. “Students who come in for open house can see something no other program offers. It's wonderful to be able to say we have these opportunities, and to actually have the funding to back them up."

Admiration, as it turns out, goes both ways. "We are so impressed with the ASL program, with Jessica. She does great things that have lasting impacts, probably all over the country," Vickie said.

Scott added, “We love seeing that whatever we donate, whatever we contribute, it’s a small part, but it really makes a difference.”

To make your own gift, or to see more impact stories of Huskies like Scott and Vickie, visit https://giving.bloomu.edu/the-campaign-for-bloomsburg-it-starts-with-us.