Featured Funds

Now more than ever, you have the power to ensure that financial hardship won’t be a barrier to a Rider education and that the University has the resources to create and maintain a safe environment for on-campus students. 

Donors who give to The Rider Scholarship Fund assist financially struggling students, helping them to close the gap between tuition and expenses, and help the University provide 98% of students with critical financial assistance.

Donors who give to The Rider Fund support important University initiatives in academics and research, student services, operations and student life, and allow Rider to respond to unexpected opportunities as they emerge. Your contribution, combined with that of others, will benefit every student on campus.

While the University’s greatest areas of need are currently The Rider Fund and The Rider Scholarship Fund, any area you choose to support is greatly appreciated. The funds listed below offer direct assistance to Rider students, and these are just a few of the many available funds that have a lasting impact on those who study here. If you have any questions or would like to discuss additional funding opportunities, please reach out to Gabriella Hill at 609-896-5108 or [email protected].

The Arena Fund

Rider’s NCAA Division I sports teams play a central role in creating the college experience for students. The excitement that surrounds big games is a key element of life on campus and school pride. In addition to providing a social hub where students, alumni, season ticket holders and casual fans alike get swept up in the emotion of cheering on our student-athletes, our successful teams increase school spirit, impact enrollment and connect us to the greater community.

In Spring 2021, Rider is offering Arena seat ($500) and basketball locker ($1,000) namings to demonstrate our community’s support for our athletes. Through these naming opportunities or general support for The Arena Fund, you will help to enhance Rider’s living and learning environment. Plans call for new ticketing and concession areas, expanded and additional restrooms, improved broadcasting and advertising areas and enhanced athletic training facilities, while a new wing will provide a dedicated volleyball locker room and upgraded athletic administrative offices.

EOP Book Award Fund

The EOP Book Award Fund is managed by the Educational Opportunity Program office and operates similarly to an emergency relief fund for students who appeal for financial assistance in purchasing textbooks. This fund assists 25-30 students each year by providing them with vouchers for the University bookstore. It is distributed to students on a per case basis, depending on the current need and funds available.

The Presidential Textbook Priority Fund

Awards for this fund are overseen by Rider’s Financial Aid Office. Eligible students receive a gift card to the bookstore to help pay for their textbooks.

The Rider University Gay-Straight Alliance Fund

This fund supports Lavender Graduation and additional activities of Spectrum Pride Alliance, Rider campus’ student-run LGBTQ+ organization.

The Student Resource Pantry Fund

Funds directed to Rider’s student Food and Resource Pantry will be used to provide nourishment to students who struggle to eat consistently and give them access to dry goods, toiletries, laundry supplies, cooking supplies, cold-weather clothing as well as PPE. 

The Student Support Services Emergency Fund

Funds from the Student Support Services Emergency Fund are used to assist participants within the SSS program exclusively. These funds help reduce the emotional, financial, and at times, the physical challenges that may prevent students from continuing their education at Rider University.

The Rider Veterans Fund

Donations made to The Rider Veterans Fund will be used to provide support services, activities and to fund special projects exclusively for veterans and members of the military and their family members.

The Veterans Scholarship Fund

The Veterans Scholarship fund provides financial support to Rider University's veteran students seeking to complete their undergraduate education.