Newly Established Wings Fund Helps Families Affected by COVID-19 Pandemic

With COVID-19 causing financial hardships for many, Endicott College sought out to create a scholarship fund that would assist returning students most affected by the economic downtown caused by the pandemic. The Wings Fund, established in late March, raised an impressive $125,000 and was awarded to a total of 50 Endicott students in July.

The inspiration behind the Wings Fund resulted from a parent reaching out to President Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D., and Vice President of Institutional Advancement David Vigneron to inquire about donating their prorated room and board refund from the spring semester to a student unable to return to campus due to financial stressors. With that, came the Wings Fund, giving families the opportunity to apply their room and board credit to the newly established fund, providing these students with the means to return this fall.

And, almost immediately, the College saw gifts rolling in by those eager to help out their fellow Gulls. “We all belong to the Endicott community. When we heard about the Wings Fund, it seemed obvious to donate our refund in order to help out others who may be experiencing hardship. When fellow community members are in need, we help when we can," says Rachel Van Emon, parent of Gabe Van Emon ’23. Staff and faculty members also joined the effort, donating to support the fund.

The Wings Fund is a true testament to the College’s tight-knit community and the mentality that Gulls look out for one another—whether they are current students or alumni. Alumna and Board of Trustees Member Ginger Judge ’51 exemplifies the spirit of giving back. "I was so proud of my alma mater in the quick way they created the Wings Fund to assist Endicott students and their families most affected by the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was important to me to support this fund, as I know the talented and caring students at Endicott are going to be our future leaders, and we must help them in any way we can during this very challenging time."

The Wings Fund will surely have a long-lasting impact on the student recipients as they can now continue to pursue their academic and career aspirations.