The Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation is proud to announce a transformative gift of $330,000 from Michael and Nancy Bohdan of Cranford, NJ, to support student scholarships at Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) in Lviv. This generous donation will fund 75 scholarships over the next five years, focusing on three vital fields: Physical and Occupational Therapy & Rehabilitation, Public Administration & Governance, and Non-Profit Management. In addition, the gift will bolster UCU’s Physical Rehabilitation Program, which has expanded significantly since the onset of the full-scale invasion.

“We were deeply moved by what we saw on the UCU campus—it rivaled any American institution in quality and spirit,” shared Michael Bohdan. “Our faith and upbringing taught us the importance of lifting up future generations. Supporting these students—who have chosen to stay in Ukraine and rebuild their country—is our way of giving back and investing in hope.”

The Bohdans’ commitment reflects a profound belief in education as a cornerstone of national renewal. Their gift ensures that talented, driven students—many of whom would not otherwise have access to higher education—can pursue their studies at a worldclass institution in their home country and contribute meaningfully to Ukraine’s future.

Annetta Hewko, CEO of UCU Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude: “Michael and Nancy’s vision and generosity will have a lasting impact. These scholarships will be life-changing for students who are eager to learn, lead, and serve. Their support is a powerful affirmation of the resilience and promise of Ukraine’s youth.”

Michael Bohdan was born in Germany and immigrated to the United States in 1950. He attended St. John’s Ukrainian Catholic School in Newark, NJ, and graduated from St. Basil’s High School in Stamford, CT. Nancy Bohdan, born in Newark, NJ, shares Michael’s deep commitment to Ukrainian heritage and community service.

Michael dedicated over thirty years to public administration, including serving as Director of Community and Economic Development in Cranford, NJ. In retirement, both Michael and Nancy have remained actively engaged in the Ukrainian American community including volunteering with the Charitable program supporting humanitarian aid for Ukraine at St. John’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Newark.   Michael recently retired as Branch #133 Secretary of the Ukrainian National Association (UNA). Their frequent travels to Ukraine, including a visit to the UCU campus in 2018, inspired their generous commitment.

“We saw a campus full of hope and enthusiasm.”  Michael added. “That visit planted the seed for what we are now honored to support.”