A new endowment gift ensures that first-generation students will have access to Bucknell, regardless of financial circumstances. As the University continues to prioritize financial aid, this significant investment from alumni donors underscores the growing momentum behind Bucknell’s new access initiatives, which are supported by the Center for Access & Success.

Bob '84, P'16 and Sue DeMent Gamgort '84, P'16 have made a gift that enables Bucknell to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need and eliminate loans for students in the Gamgort Family Gateway Scholars Program. Established by the pair in 2023, the program is named in recognition of the family's commitment and generosity.

"When students receive the support they need to pursue higher education, it creates a ripple effect of opportunity for their families that lasts for generations," says Bob. "We've seen that ripple begin through the Gateway Scholars Program and the Center for Access & Success at Bucknell and are honored to support that work in perpetuity."

As the Gateway program has grown, the couple has returned to campus to meet with students and learn about their experiences. In addition to receiving a full scholarship that covers their financial need, Gateway Scholars are supported by a comprehensive system that includes academic, personal and professional growth through mentorship and access to vital resources. The program fosters a sense of belonging and confidence that helps students navigate college life, pursue their goals and lay the foundation for long-term success.

"Understanding the impact on students — seeing them succeed as members of the Bucknell community — makes the vision of this gift so much greater," says Sue. "We trust that once these students arrive on campus, they have what they need to make the most of their time at Bucknell."

Chris Brown, the Andrew Hartman '71 & Joseph Fama '71 Executive Director of the Center for Access & Success, provides visionary guidance as the University invests in access programs like the Gateway Scholars. "Access is about more than getting students to campus," says Brown. "Lifting the financial burden allows students to say 'yes' to Bucknell, and once they are here, it's our job to embolden their growth."

The program's comprehensive design ensures access to campus resources through various touchpoints. Through strategic campus partnerships and donor support, the Center for Access & Success has expanded opportunities for high-impact experiences such as study abroad, internships and career development. Dedicated advocacy programs connect students with faculty and staff mentors, while specialized grant funding helps cover the costs of experiential learning. Together, these initiatives ensure students can fully engage in all Bucknell offers, regardless of background or financial circumstance.

For many Gateway Scholars, the experience goes beyond financial relief — it's also about finding a sense of belonging and empowerment. Kaylin Reynolds '27 says the program gave her the confidence to thrive at Bucknell. "Gateway has provided me with a community, a network and the knowledge that I'm not alone," Reynolds says. "As a first-generation student, it's been comforting to know that people are rooting for me and want to see me succeed. That support has given me the confidence to reach higher."

The Gamgorts' endowment secures the future of the program, ensuring that generations of Bucknell students will continue to benefit from this support.

"This gift highlights the transformative power of financial aid," says Bucknell President John Bravman. "It opens doors for talented students who might otherwise be unable to attend Bucknell and strengthens our community by bringing these exceptional students into the fold as Gamgort Family Gateway Scholars."