The William Bucknell Society
The William Bucknell Society is our most esteemed lifetime recognition society, honoring alumni, parents and friends whose extraordinary generosity and vision have shaped the future of Bucknell through outright, unencumbered gifts of $1 million or more. Membership reflects a deep and enduring commitment to advancing the University's mission and strengthening the transformational experiences that define a Bucknell education.
As Bucknell's premier philanthropic community, the William Bucknell Society brings together some of our most dedicated and forward-thinking supporters through meaningful opportunities for connection, engagement and impact. Members enjoy exclusive invitations to engage with University leadership and distinguished faculty through curated gatherings, special events and unique experiences. Members also receive access to a directory intended to help strengthen connections within this community.
The William Bucknell Society not only recognizes remarkable generosity, but also celebrates a shared belief in Bucknell's future and the collective impact of those who invest in its continued excellence.
Stories of Impact
The generosity of William Bucknell Society members has an immediate and lasting impact on the lives of Bucknellians, expanding opportunities, enriching the campus experience, and supporting the strategic initiatives that make the University distinctive and exceptional. By providing vital support to Bucknell's three colleges, athletic programs, endowed scholarships, interdisciplinary academic centers and the Bucknell Fund, society members fuel transformation that ensures the University thrives — today and for generations to come.
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A gift from society members Bill '70 and Madeline Morrow will advance a bold vision for hands-on interdisciplinary learning, sustainability and community engagement.
The Morrow Farm at Bucknell University
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Inspired by the challenges facing today's students, society members Lance '85 and Julie Crenson Fritz '85 are helping build a culture of holistic wellness at Bucknell.
Elevating Student Health and Wellness
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In the state-of-the-art Pascucci Team Center, the mighty Bison sharpen their competitive edge with support from society member Michael Pascucci '58, P'81, P'87, G'21, G'22.
Excellence in Athletics
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A scholarship opens doors for first-generation students, carrying a legacy of curiosity cultivated in the classroom by society members Professors David and Pauline Fletcher.
Honoring a Legacy
Celebrating Generosity
The William Bucknell Society last gathered in Chelsea, New York in November 2024. The event featured networking breakfast and panel discussion on the climate of higher education, a meal by the James Beard Foundation featuring fresh produce from the Morrow Farm, and the Celebration Awards Dinner and new member induction at Current at Pier 59, where the society's incredible philanthropic impact was celebrated through student speakers and musical performances.
The William Bucknell Philanthropic Award
The William Bucknell Philanthropic Award honors distinguished society members whose life-long generosity has made a profound and transformative impact on the Bucknell campus and in the lives of Bucknell students.
Past Recipients:
2024 — Steve and Bonnie Holmes, '79, P'06, P'08
2023 — Bob H'10 and Natalie Rooke, G'06, G'07, G'12
2019 — Ken '57 and Elaine Langone, P'83
William Bucknell Society Membership
Members are formally inducted at the William Bucknell Society Celebration.
Current members
Total members
Save the Date
Members receive invitations to exclusive society events including the William Bucknell Society Celebration.
- Virtual Fireside Chat with President Bravman | May 13, 2026
- Reunion Weekend* | May 29–31, 2026
- Family Weekend* | Sept. 18–20, 2026
- Homecoming* | Oct. 16–18, 2026
- William Bucknell Society Celebration Event | November 5, 2027
*Invitation may be dependent on class year and/or status as a parent or grandparent.
Each member of the William Bucknell Society receives exclusive benefits in recognition of their generosity.
- Formal induction into the society with a presentation of the William Bucknell Society golden bison statuette.
- Invitations to exclusive society events including the William Bucknell Society Celebration.
- Access to exclusive opportunities to engage with the president, senior staff, faculty and students.
- Early registration access to Reunion for members who are in a significant Reunion year.
- Society-branded gold name tags.
- Concierge-level service and preferred seating at select events.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact Jessica Owens Pastuszek
Director of Stewardship & Donor Relations
Email: jessica.pastuszek@bucknell.edu