Fumiko Hoeft is a professor, campus dean, and the chief administrative officer of UConn Waterbury. Trained as both a physician and neuroscientist, she has spent her career at leading universities across the U.S. and abroad. With numerous honors for her research and leadership, she is known nationally and internationally for her work in neuroscience, education, and dyslexia.

When asked what drew her to UConn, Hoeft’s answer is straightforward: “UConn students, faculty, and staff are selfless and curious in the pursuit of knowledge and science that makes the world a better place. UConn is truly special—the full package.”

That conviction led her to make a cross-country commitment, commuting weekly from her home in San Francisco to lead the Waterbury campus. And it is what now inspires her philanthropy.

Why Waterbury?

“When I first considered UConn, I had no experience with regional campuses. But I quickly saw how remarkable they are. Our Waterbury students are dedicated to their studies, their families, and their communities. They embrace difference, they lift each other up, and they embody resilience.”

That resilience is shown in the data. By multiple national measures, UConn Waterbury ranks #1 in Connecticut for both economic mobility (EMI) and return on investment (ROI). It is also consistently placed among the top 25 campuses nationally, holding its own not only against other four-year public institutions but also many private and Ivy League universities. Whether measured at 10 years or 40 years after graduation, UConn Waterbury delivers extraordinary value and outcomes for its students.

For Hoeft, these results demonstrate that Waterbury is not just delivering access, but also real, long-term outcomes. “Our campus is living proof that higher education can change lives and communities,” she said. “That is why I believe UConn Waterbury deserves even greater investment and recognition.”

A Personal Investment in the Future

To accelerate that momentum, Hoeft has committed a $500,000 matching gift—bringing her total personal giving to more than $800,000 in just a few years.

“This was an easy decision,” she explained. “UConn Waterbury is one of the most diverse campuses in the system. Many of our students are first-generation, from underrepresented backgrounds, and face high financial need. I want to help ensure that they not only succeed, but thrive.”

Her gift directly supports two of the Because of UConn Campaign pillars—Students First and Academic & Innovation Excellence—reflecting her belief in the transformative power of education. By structuring her gift as a challenge match, she hopes to inspire others to join her. “Every gift made toward this challenge doubles its impact. Together, we can create opportunities that benefit our students for generations to come.”

UConn President Radenka Maric praised Hoeft’s commitment: “Fumiko’s leadership at UConn Waterbury continues to be incredibly dynamic, invigorating, and inspiring. She is so clearly and deeply committed to the campus, the community, and the success of every one of our students. This important initiative and her own personal generosity is yet another example of what an outstanding champion she is for UConn Waterbury and the city. I am so grateful for her dedication and commitment.”

Hope for the Future

Hoeft’s vision is that every Waterbury student graduates on time and enters the workforce ready to succeed. Since becoming Dean in 2022, she has prioritized infrastructure upgrades, experiential learning programs, and workforce readiness initiatives—but she knows there is still work to do.

“Student success is University success,” she said. “And student success is also success for the future of our world.”

Her challenge gift is both a personal statement of faith in UConn Waterbury and a call to action for others. “This is our moment to come together. With your partnership, we can change lives, strengthen our communities, and build a brighter future—Because of UConn.”

Support the UConn Waterbury Enhancement Fund. Flexible dollars will support student scholarships, success and wellness programs, experiential learning, and other emerging priorities. Eligible gifts for this challenge will be matched 1:1, up to $500,000.