A Community Transforms One Student’s Future

Hailey Hukill’s journey to Bloomsburg is a testament to the transformative power of community and support — a story that reflects the spirit of “The Campaign for Bloomsburg: It Starts With Us.”

A senior accounting major from Scranton who graduated in December, Hukill is blazing her own trail as the first in her family to attend college.

Despite challenges, she found a second family in the Bloomsburg community.

“My favorite thing about Bloomsburg is the education I’ve received in the accounting program,” Hukill shares. “Dr. Michael Shapiro is tough — he demands a lot of work and studying—but I know that when I enter the field, I’m well-prepared, even compared to peers from other colleges. That confidence makes me happy.”

Hukill’s academic achievements were supported by scholarships that have lightened the financial burden of pursuing higher education. Among these were the Piatkowski Family Scholarship, established
by alumnus Ed Piatkowski ’86. More than just a donor, Piatkowski became a mentor and cheerleader for Hukill, staying in regular contact and offering guidance as she works toward her goals.

“Helping students like Hailey is what it’s all about,” says Piatkowski. “Her perseverance and work ethic are amazing. Students like her remind us why giving is so important, especially now, with state funding so far from what it was when we were in school.”

For Hukill, this relationship has been life-changing. 

“Ed cares about my education like I’m one of his own children,” she says. “He’s so supportive and understanding. We often talk — he’ll send me job opportunities or articles he thinks will help me.
We’ve gotten to know each other on a personal level, and I’m so grateful for him.”

Hukill’s path to Bloomsburg wasn’t without obstacles. Initially planning to attend another university, she encountered challenges with financial aid that seemed insurmountable. Bloomsburg, however, welcomed her with open arms, working with her to find a way forward. “Bloomsburg’s financial aid office was willing to help me achieve my dreams,” Hukill explains. “That meant everything.” 

Beyond financial support, Hukill has found a network of friends, faculty, and staff who have become her champions. “There will always be people who want to help you out,” she says. “Make those connections. If you’re willing to break cycles and work hard, you’ll meet people who will want to support you and be there for you. And you’ll carry that kindness forward.”

“I know the difference donor support has made in my experience, and I want to do the same for others.”
— Hailey Hukill

This sense of community has inspired Hukill to think about how she can pay it forward in the future. “If I have even a little extra money, I’ll want to help somebody else,” she says. “I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference it makes.”

Hukill’s commitment to paying it forward started before she even left campus. She has already made her Senior Class Gift, a tradition that allows soon-to-be graduates to leave a legacy of support for
future Huskies. “It’s important to me to give back, even in a small way,” she explains. “I know the difference donor support has made in my experience, and I want to do the same for others.”

Her resilience and gratitude are a powerful reminder that every act of generosity — no matter the size — can change a life.

“Students like Hailey show us why giving matters,” Piatkowski says. “They are the future, and it really does start with us by providing our support.”