Zach Eastman, a remarkable individual who graduated from Plymouth State University in 2021 and earned a graduate degree in 2022, has established a scholarship that embodies his journey and the power of hope. The Zachary N. Eastman '21, '22G Hope Scholarship is a testament to his challenging upbringing and the positive experiences he had at PSU.
Zach's path to success was not an easy one. He faced numerous obstacles and financial constraints growing up, but he never let go of his dream of attending university. In 2018, he received his first scholarship, a turning point that ignited a deep desire within him to give back to others who were in similar circumstances. He made a promise to himself that once he achieved financial stability, he would pay it forward.
“Before saying goodbye to PSU, I decided it was time to fulfill that promise,” Zach says, “the one I made just five years ago as a poor, hopeful kid looking to use the power of education to create a better life for myself, which is why I created the Hope Scholarship. Hope changed my life, and I know the impact of hope will change the lives of others. Hope for a bigger, better, and brighter future."
Reflecting on his own journey, he understands the transformative power of hope and its ability to change lives. Through this scholarship, he aims to provide others with the opportunity to pursue higher education and create a brighter future for themselves.
Zach's commitment to giving back extends beyond his scholarship. He currently works for Ryan Chadwick, a PSU alum from the class of 2000 who is a serial entrepreneur and owner of Tanner's Boathouse, Kaaterskill Trolley Company, and Fred’s Coffee & Donuts. "This is a great opportunity for a recent alum like me to learn about entrepreneurship in a real-world setting. Not only am I taking a lot away from this experience, but I have also gained an incredible mentor along the way,” he says.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Chadwick provides affordable housing for interns working in his companies in New York. This dedication to supporting others in their career aspirations underscores Zach's unwavering belief in the value of mentorship and the importance of helping others along their journey. “Ryan Chadwick inspires me to one day create similar opportunities for eager entrepreneurs looking to learn more about business.”
The Zachary N. Eastman '21, '22G Hope Scholarship is a testament to Zach's resilience, determination, and gratitude. It serves as a beacon of hope for those who face adversity, reminding them that education has the power to transform lives. As Zach moves forward in his own career, he will continue to inspire others and make a lasting impact through his philanthropy and mentorship.
DONOR SCHOLARSHIPS ESTABLISHED IN FY23 (July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023):
- The Angilly Opportunity Scholarship
- John ’83 and Laurel Cunnane Scholarship Fund
- Virginia Brown Doherty ’48 Scholarship in Business Administration
- Zachary N. Eastman ’21, ‘22G Hope Scholarship Fund
- Lucille Nutting Gilman ’44 Endowed Scholarship
- Gerard J. Jacobs ’11 Endowed Business Scholarship Fund
- Donna O’Gara P’14 Memorial Scholarship Fund
- Thomas ’75 and Mary Jane Proulx Endowed Scholarship Fund
- Barbara Rousseau Quasi Endowed Scholarship
ESTABLISH A SCHOLARSHIP
Establishing a named scholarship is a meaningful way to honor a family member, a mentor, or a specific passion of yours. A named annual scholarship can be established with a four-year commitment of at least $2,500 annually. Alternatively, you can create a scholarship endowment with a minimum gift of $25,000, which will generate a 3% to 4% annual payout to provide scholarship awards in perpetuity.
For more information, visit plymouth.edu/giving, or contact Director of Development John Scheinman P’19, P’21G by phone at (603) 535-2805 or via e-mail at jscheinman@plymouth.edu.
