Matthew A. Scogin

Restoring Hope in Higher Ed

This presentation explores the urgent need for innovation in a system strained by rising costs and growing disillusionment of higher ed, as revealed by Gallup research. As skepticism toward traditional funding models intensifies, Hope College is pioneering a bold, mission-driven response. Inspired by a deep commitment to transformation, the college has embraced a reimagined approach to funding education with pillars rooted in access, generosity, and community.

At the heart of this vision is Hope Forward, an innovative model that makes education accessible to all by removing upfront tuition costs. Instead of paying for their education in advance, students are invited to give back after graduation, creating a self-sustaining cycle of opportunity for future generations. More than just a financial solution, Hope Forward seeks to innovatively reshape the culture of higher education, shifting the focus from transaction to transformation. By instilling gratitude and inspiring generosity, it offers a hopeful path forward—one that not only relieves the burden of student debt but also cultivates a community built on purpose and shared responsibility.

Bio for President Matthew A. Scogin:

Matthew A. Scogin is the 14th president of Hope College, assuming office on July 1, 2019. Before becoming president, Scogin had a distinguished career in both the corporate and government sectors. He served as chief administrative officer at Perella Weinberg Partners in New York City and held senior positions at the New York Stock Exchange and the U.S. Treasury Department. His leadership at the NYSE involved guiding the company through significant change, and at the Treasury Department, he advised on economic and financial policy.

A champion for reform in higher education, Scogin introduced the Hope Forward initiative, a bold vision to provide fully-funded tuition by creating a sustainable, pay-it-forward funding model based on generosity and gratitude.

He is a 2002 graduate of Hope College and holds a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University and has been actively involved with Hope College since graduation, including serving on the Board of Trustees. He is married to Sarah, also a Hope graduate, and they have three children.