An Impactful Pledge
by Matt Hughes
FOR MICHAEL PASCUCCI ’58, P’81, P’87, G’21, G’22, a Bucknell education was an opportunity.
Born in Manhasset, Long Island, N.Y., Pascucci was the first member of his immediate family to attend college. When he arrived at Bucknell, Pascucci poured his own sweat and devotion into making the most of his shot at success.
Bucknell enabled Pascucci to succeed — to a degree he could never have anticipated at age 17. Now, he’s made a commitment that will unlock the life-changing opportunities afforded by a Bucknell education for thousands of future students and for generations to come.
Pascucci has pledged more than $40 million to Bucknell, the largest one-time commitment in the University’s history. Of this historic pledge, $30 million will support unrestricted, need-based financial-aid endowment through the Pascucci Family Scholarship, providing a transformative boost for the University’s No. 1 fundraising priority.
Over $10 million more will enable improvements in and around Christy Mathewson–Memorial Stadium. In recognition of Pascucci’s historic commitment to both financial aid and athletics, the area of campus that includes the stadium and the Christy Mathewson Gates will be named the Pascucci Family Athletics Complex.
“The extraordinary generosity of Michael Pascucci will have a permanent impact on our University’s most imperative calling —ensuring that the power and opportunity of a Bucknell education is accessible,” President John Bravman said in recognition of the pledge. “Many future generations of Bucknellians to come will owe a deep gratitude and appreciation for the generosity of Michael, his family and the Pascucci Family Foundation.”
Pascucci says his commitment is about offering the students of tomorrow the same kinds of life-changing opportunities that opened up the world for him.
“I feel that life is up to the individual, that what you do with your own life is your choice,” Pascucci says. “But everyone doesn’t get the same chances or have the opportunity to do their best. If the only reason some students can’t go to Bucknell is because of finances, then I want to help them have a chance.”
Athletics enhancements funded by the pledge are anticipated to open in 2023, and include the new Michael C. Pascucci Team Center and a turf practice field that offers additional training and practice space for eight men’s and women’s teams.