DePaul University has announced the creation of a new scholarship program following a $10 million donation from the Sue Ling Gin Foundation. The initiative, named the Sue Gin Scholars Initiative, is designed to expand access to higher education by providing financial assistance and recognition to incoming undergraduates, with an emphasis on first-generation college students.

The gift also establishes an endowed position for a Sue Gin Student Success Director at DePaul. This role will offer personalized coaching and mentoring for scholars, supporting academic progress and connecting them with university resources. Additional funding will help recruit student cohorts and support campus visits for out-of-state students who may not otherwise be able to travel to Chicago.

“Sue Gin embodied the spirit that animates DePaul. This landmark gift will open doors of opportunity for DePaul students today and for generations to come, honoring her extraordinary life and legacy,” said DePaul President Robert L. Manuel. “In keeping with our Catholic, Vincentian mission, this initiative strengthens our commitment to care for every student. It fosters a community where all students can thrive, discover their purpose, and share their talents in service to others.”

Sue Gin Scholars will have access to experiential learning opportunities such as community service projects, study abroad programs, internships, on-campus research experiences, and extracurricular activities. These offerings are intended both to support student retention and address achievement gaps in higher education. Holistic support will be provided throughout each scholar’s time at DePaul until graduation.

“From recruitment to their first day at DePaul to graduation, Sue Gin Scholars will receive the support and resources necessary to thrive on campus and in their future careers,” said Kimberlie L. Goldsberry, interim vice president of DePaul’s Division of Student Affairs. “This initiative ensures students reach graduation with the confidence, competencies and values to effectively transition into their chosen fields. Moreover, future graduates will have the opportunity to serve as program mentors, creating a strong community and support system for the next generation of Sue Gin Scholars.”

Sue Ling Gin was known as an entrepreneur who founded Flying Food Group in 1983—now one of America’s leading airline catering companies—and developed real estate properties in Chicago’s West Loop area through her management company. She was also involved with DePaul University as a member of its Board of Trustees from 1993 until 2014; she served on the School of Hospitality Advisory Board; and played a key part in fundraising efforts for science facilities on the Lincoln Park Campus that bear her late husband William G. McGowan’s name.

At a 2007 ceremony marking construction on McGowan South science building at DePaul University—a project she helped guide—Gin stated: “Advancing youth through education is a key component of the fund’s mission. We are pleased to partner with DePaul University in the advancement of its sciences program. Not only will this new building improve the university’s ability to train scientists, teachers and professionals, but ultimately it will expand DePaul’s capacity to provide excellence in education to underserved youth who wish to pursue an education and career in science. That is exciting!”

David Cotton—chief executive officer at Flying Food Group and trustee for Sue Ling Gin Foundation—noted that supporting young people through educational opportunities was central both during Gin's lifetime and now through her foundation's ongoing work: “Sue was a remarkable individual who never stopped innovating and making a difference, both for her business enterprises and younger generations pursuing similar career paths despite sometimes challenging circumstances,” Cotton said. “It is our mission to maintain her legacy by giving institutions where the example she set continues inspire others in perpetuity.”