Alumni Association Awards

Each year, the Bucknell University Alumni Association celebrates the extraordinary achievements and unwavering loyalty of its distinguished alumni. These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of alumni, with preference given to those celebrating a Reunion year. Alumni Association Award winners embody the Bucknellian spirit, marked by their leadership, strength of character, intellectual exploration, creativity and imagination.

Congratulations to our 2026 Alumni Award Recipients!

Loyalty to Bucknell Award

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Barbara L. Gasper '76
Through her career in investor relations, and her deep and long-standing devotion to Bucknell through volunteering and philanthropy, Gasper continues to invest in the University community.

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Outstanding Achievement in a Chosen Profession Award

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Christine Peterjohn Richards '76
A former U.S. Magistrate and legal strategist, Richards' work led the global expansion and success of FedEx Corporation. She credits Bucknell for helping her develop the skills that enabled her professional success.

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Service to Humanity Award

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Judge John C. Uhler (Ret.) '66
Uhler's long career as a juvenile court judge served countless youth, both through his development of the award-winning Juvenile Mental Health Court (JUMP) and his efforts for truancy reduction across the Pennsylvania Commonwealth.

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Young Alumni Award

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Richie Hyden '11
Hyden co-founded IRIS.TV and grew it into a leading programmatic advertising platform, culminating in its acquisition by Viant Technology, where he now drives advertising innovation across connected TV and streaming.

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Alumni Association Awards

The Loyalty to Bucknell Award is presented annually to a member of the alumni community whose service, dedication and commitment to their alma mater are extraordinary.
Criteria for consideration include:
- Alumni engagement: Active participation in events, reunions and networking initiatives.
- Volunteer leadership: Leadership roles in alumni groups and committees.
- Mentorship and support: Providing guidance and support to students and recent graduates.
- Fundraising and philanthropy: Contributions to University fundraising efforts.
Meet the 2026 Loyalty to Bucknell Award winner, Barbara L. Gasper '76
The Outstanding Achievement in a Chosen Profession Award is presented annually to a member of the alumni community whose professional accomplishments and achievements are exceptionally noteworthy and distinctive in his or her profession.
Criteria for consideration include:
- Innovations: Groundbreaking innovations or solutions within their profession.
- Leadership: Exceptional leadership roles and industry influence.
- Impact on society: Significant contributions to social causes, public service or humanitarian efforts.
- Awards and recognition: Prestigious awards and honors in their field.
Meet the 2026 Outstanding Achievement in a Chosen Profession Award winner, Christine Peterjohn Richards '76
The Service To Humanity Award is presented annually to a member of the alumni community whose selfless and caring work and deeds benefit society and humankind.
Criteria for consideration include:
- Community service: Active involvement in volunteer work and community projects.
- Humanitarian initiatives: Contributions to disaster relief, poverty alleviation, healthcare or social justice.
- Philanthropic contributions: Financial support to charitable organizations.
Meet the 2026 Service to Humanity Award winners, John C. Uhler '66
The Young Alumni Award is presented annually to a member of the alumni community who graduated in the last 15 years and whose professional accomplishments, service to alma mater, or selfless and caring work to benefit society are distinctive.
Criteria for consideration include:
- Professional accomplishments: Notable career advancements, innovations or industry recognitions.
- Service to alma mater: Active engagement in volunteering, mentoring, fundraising or other alumni initiatives.
- Societal contributions: Significant philanthropic work, community service or societal initiatives.
Meet the 2026 Young Alumni Award winner, Richie Hyden '11