Alumna’s Record $5M Gift to Fuel Neumann's Nursing Program

ASTON, PA – January 16, 2026 – Neumann University announced today it has received a transformative $5 million gift from alumna Jacquelyn Wilson Fegley, class of 1971, and her husband, William Fegley, Jr. The donation, the largest from an individual in the university's history, is set to profoundly impact its highly-regarded nursing program by creating extensive scholarships and upgrading facilities.

In a ceremony at the suburban Philadelphia campus, the university celebrated the landmark contribution by renaming its BSN and graduate nursing programs as The Jacquelyn Wilson Fegley '71 College of Nursing. The bulk of the funds, $4.5 million, will establish an endowment for undergraduate nursing scholarships, while the remaining $500,000 is designated for acquiring state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. This dual investment aims to both widen access to nursing education and enhance the practical training that future healthcare professionals receive.

A Legacy of Service and Success

The gift represents a full-circle moment for Jacquelyn Fegley, whose roots at the institution run deep. A native of Chester, Pennsylvania, she entered the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia in 1962 after high school, dedicating a decade to service and teaching. Her path then led her to what was then Our Lady of Angels College, where she earned her nursing degree in 1971 and embarked on a professional nursing career. Her journey reflects the Franciscan values of service and excellence that remain central to the university’s identity.

Her husband, William Fegley, Jr., brings his own distinguished record of professional achievement and community service. A graduate of Drexel University with both an undergraduate degree and an MBA, he founded the accounting firm Fegley & Associates in 1975, leading it for 47 years before its merger with Morison Cogen LLP, where he now serves as a partner. A former U.S. Army Captain, his extensive service includes roles as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Sisters of Saint Francis Foundation and board membership at St. Luke's Hospital, Carbon County. His family has a multi-generational history of supporting education, a legacy he and his wife are now advancing on an unprecedented scale at Neumann.

A Strategic Investment in a Critical Field

The Fegleys' donation arrives at a pivotal time for the American healthcare system. The nation is grappling with a persistent and growing nursing shortage, driven by an aging population and increased demand for care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Registered Nursing workforce is projected to need over 177,000 new nurses by 2032, with nearly 200,000 openings emerging annually due to retirements and other workforce exits.

This gift directly addresses this challenge by creating a sustainable pipeline of highly skilled nurses. The $4.5 million scholarship fund will begin awarding aid this fall, providing 15 new students each year with $6,000 annually. This recurring support, totaling $24,000 over a four-year degree, will significantly ease the financial burden on aspiring nurses. The additional $500,000 for laboratory equipment ensures these students will train on the most current technology, preparing them to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.

"This extraordinarily generous gift comes at a time when the demand for highly competent, practice-ready nurses continues to grow nationwide," said Dr. Chris Domes, president of Neumann University. "The Fegley nursing scholarships will help transform the lives of countless aspiring nurses."

Fueling Social Mobility and Access

The scholarship's focus on students with demonstrated financial need aligns perfectly with Neumann University's core mission of promoting social mobility. The university has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for six consecutive years for its success in this area, with over 60% of its student body being the first in their families to attend college.

With annual undergraduate tuition and fees around $37,000, the $6,000 Fegley scholarship represents a substantial award that can make the difference between enrolling or forgoing a college education. By supporting 15 students in each incoming class of approximately 120, the Fegley endowment will directly fund the education of about 12.5% of the nursing cohort annually, creating a powerful engine for opportunity. Students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be automatically considered, ensuring the funds reach those who need them most.

Bolstering a Top-Tier Program

This investment is not just about expanding access; it's about reinforcing excellence. The Jacquelyn Wilson Fegley '71 College of Nursing is already a regional leader in nursing education. Over the last four years, its graduates have achieved an exceptional 96.9% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

This figure places Neumann significantly ahead of both the Pennsylvania state average (89.98%) and the national average (86.33%) for the same period. Its performance rivals that of other major Philadelphia-area programs at institutions like Villanova and Drexel, solidifying its reputation as a producer of top-tier healthcare talent. The infusion of funds for new equipment will further enhance its competitive edge, ensuring its facilities match the caliber of its instruction and student outcomes.

The Fegleys' historic gift provides a powerful endorsement of the university's model, which combines rigorous academics with a deep-seated commitment to values and service. As Dr. Domes noted, the support will be particularly impactful for first-generation college students, supporting "their academic journey to a lifelong professional career" and empowering a new generation to carry on a legacy of compassionate care.