Richard Bland College Advances Vision for a Debt-Free College Degree
For Immediate Release: April 23, 2026
Contact: Office of the President — Eileen Strempel, estrempel@rbc.edu, 917-721-4036
Today, Richard Bland College (RBC) and the Richard Bland College Foundation launched the Debt-Free RBC Degree campaign video to spotlight the College’s bold effort to eliminate financial barriers and ensure that every student has the resources needed to complete a degree without life-altering debt.
This launch follows a highly successful quiet fundraising phase during which the campaign garnered $800,000 toward its Phase One $1 million goal. This early success demonstrates strong donor confidence in the vision and impact of Richard Bland College.
Originally announced in February of this year, the Debt-Free RBC Degree campaign seeks to expand endowed scholarships, provide immediate aid for critical needs such as textbooks and technology, as well as establish a comprehensive Student Needs Center that provides essential basic needs support for students. At the heart of the campaign is the belief that affordability, access, and student success must go hand in hand.
“Early campaign momentum speaks volumes about a broadly shared commitment to our students and their success,” said Dr. Debbie L. Sydow, President of Richard Bland College. “This campaign isn’t just about scholarships—it’s about removing barriers, meeting students where they are, and enabling them to focus on learning and degree completion.”
The cornerstone of the campaign is the Debbie and Harry Sydow Legacy Scholarship Fund. The endowed scholarship—established in honor of Dr. Sydow’s 14 years of transformative leadership at RBC—received a $25,000 lead gift from the Sydows, supporting future generations of RBC students and reflecting the Sydows’ longstanding commitment to education and opportunity.
The early success of the campaign was further propelled by significant leadership support, including a $200,000 gift from John Rathbone, former Rector of the College’s Board of Visitors. His contribution launched the Rector’s Challenge and a multi-year giving initiative from the Richard Bland College Foundation Board through the Chairman’s Challenge, led by Foundation Board Chair Jeffrey Britt.
Together, these leadership investments helped catalyze donor engagement during the quiet phase and positioned the campaign for a strong public launch.
The Debt-Free RBC Degree campaign video brings the vision of this initiative to life by highlighting the real experiences of RBC students and the tangible difference donor support makes in their academic journeys. The video will be shared via the College’s digital platforms and community partner channels.
“With this public launch, we are inviting alumni, friends and partners to be a part of something transformational,” said Eileen Strempel, Debt-Free RBC Degree campaign spokesperson. “Reaching 80 percent of our goal before the public phase even began is extraordinary—and we are confident the community will help us cross the finish line.”
RBC alumni, supporters, and members of the community are invited to watch the campaign video and join the effort to create a future where every RBC student can pursue a degree with confidence and financial stability.
Click here to watch the Debt-Free RBC Degree campaign video. To make a gift and to learn more about the campaign, click here.
