Rider University has announced the creation of the Presidential Hope Fund, a new initiative
established by President John Loyack to provide immediate financial support to students whose education may be at risk due to unforeseen financial or family hardship.
Simply put, the fund has been created as a stopgap for those in emergency situations in an
effort to ensure they reach the coveted finish line.
“This fund is deeply personal to me,” Loyack said. “When a student has done everything right — studied hard, stayed committed, worked to make their education possible — we can’t let something like an unexpected expense or family emergency take that away from them. The Presidential Hope Fund is about hope, opportunity and our belief in every student’s potential to succeed.”
School officials say the fund underscores Rider’s commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to complete their degree, regardless of temporary setbacks that could otherwise jeopardize their academic progress.
“Rider’s success depends on our ability to help every student cross the finish line,” Loyack said. “Many of our students face unexpected financial or family challenges that threaten their dreams. The Presidential Hope Fund represents our shared belief that no Bronc should have to leave Rider because of financial barriers. We are committed to doing everything we can to keep them on the path to graduation.”
Details on how students can apply for assistance through the Presidential Hope Fund will be
shared soon. Funding will be available beginning in the spring 2026 semester.
Supporters are invited to contribute to this growing effort.
Through the Presidential Hope Fund, students will be able to access critical support to cover
immediate and essential needs. The fund will:
- Increase retention and degree completion by assisting students facing financial barriers
that threaten their enrollment. - Support graduating seniors who are closest to completing their degrees.
- Enhance scholarships and financial aid opportunities for students across all programs
and levels. - Expand resources to help cover the cost of books, academic materials, professional
certification and testing fees, and other educational essentials. - Provide emergency financial assistance to students experiencing sudden crises.
To launch the initiative, Loyack has personally pledged $150,000 over the next three years. The university set an initial three-year goal to raise at least $1 million to support students through the Presidential Hope Fund.
In less than a week, the initiative has already surpassed that goal, generating more than $1.1 million in commitments since its announcement to university leadership and trustees. This is a kick-off to a much larger campaign to ensure students have the resources they need to reach their goals at Rider.
