More than 40 Rider University students have been able to continue their academic journeys despite unexpected financial hardship thanks to the Presidential Hope Fund, which has awarded over $125,000 since its launch in October 2025.
The fund was created by President John R. Loyack to provide timely, short-term support for students whose enrollment may be at risk due to financial challenges. The initiative has generated nearly $2.4 million in commitments from 271 donors, including 100% participation from Rider’s Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team.
Designed to respond quickly to urgent needs, the fund helps bridge tuition gaps and other essential expenses, particularly for students nearing degree completion. By addressing these challenges promptly, Rider helps ensure that temporary setbacks do not interrupt students’ progress toward their degrees.
One of those students is senior Sergio Nino Vela, a Communication Studies major.
Earlier this year, a fire at his father’s manufacturing facility in Peru created sudden financial strain for his family, placing his final semester at Rider in jeopardy. With support from the Presidential Hope Fund, Nino Vela was able to remain enrolled and continue working toward his degree.
“As an international student, seeing how Rider supports diverse students and cares about them makes me proud of being a Bronc,” he said. “All universities say they care about their students, but initiatives like this make the difference. Rider doesn’t just say it believes in its students — it shows it. It’s more than a university; it’s a family.”
Senior DeAundra Adams also turned to the Presidential Hope Fund during a period of financial uncertainty that threatened her ability to stay enrolled.
“Receiving support from the Presidential Hope Fund came at a time when I was experiencing stress related to tuition,” Adams said. “The assistance truly helped relieve that burden and allowed me to stay focused without added worry.
“More than anything, it made me feel supported and reminded me that Rider genuinely cares about my success and my ability to continue pursuing my goals without interruption,” Adams said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the donors whose generosity made that possible.”
Stories like these help illustrate why the Presidential Hope Fund has inspired such an extraordinary response from the Rider community.
“The early impact of the Presidential Hope Fund has exceeded our expectations,” Loyack said. “I am deeply grateful to the alumni, trustees and friends who have come together in support of our students. Their generosity is already making a meaningful and measurable difference.”
Go here for more information on how to support the Presidential Hope Fund.
