Neither Jeanne Bartman ’43 nor Raymond Bartman Jr. ’41 majored in family studies, but that is the area where they hope to make a difference.

Through a gift to the University, they have established the Bartman Scholarship in Family Studies for sophomores, juniors, and seniors who need financial assistance and are committed to helping families cope with the challenges they face.

“It is our hope that the broad field of family studies will interest men and women to study problems and help with solutions that will strengthen the well-being of the family,” says Raymond Bartman. “We believe strong family ties strengthen the culture of a country, and in turn help to build a stronger and more cohesive society.”

Adds Jeanne Bartman, “We hope our gift will help students complete their education, and that their training will enable them to work for change in guiding and influencing our diverse population to once more understand the value of the strong family unit and its benefit to our entire society.”

Professor Ronald Sabatelli, head of the human development and family studies department, says the Bartmans’ gift will help students go on to become human service providers, educators, counselors, and therapists.

“The strength of our society is tied to the strengths present within families,” says Sabatelli. “I am grateful to the Bartmans for their effort to make an impact on society through the support of students committed to working in the service of individuals and families.”

The first Bartman Scholarship in Family Studies has been awarded to Chelsea Ambrozaitis, who is majoring in human development and family studies, with a minor in political science, in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The Bartmans, who were married in 1944, credit their education for their successful careers. Jeanne Bartman earned a bachelor’s degree in clothing textile and interior design, and went on to be a teacher and curriculum consultant.

Raymond Bartman earned a degree in electrical engineering, and then joined Hughes Aircraft, where he worked on instruments for the U.S. space program.

The Bartmans say they are also grateful for the extracurricular activities that taught them valuable skills and introduced them to each other and to many lifelong friends. Jeanne Bartman was a member of Delta Chi Omega (now Kappa Kappa Gamma), 4-H, the student orchestra, and the cheerleading squad. Raymond Bartman was a soccer player and a member of Sigma Phi Gamma (now Sigma Alpha Epsilon), the Engineers Club, and the Husky Network – UConn’s first broadcasting service.

The Bartmans are impressed by UConn’s transformation from a small Connecticut college to a nationally recognized institution.

“We have watched with interest the development of the small college from which we graduated to the great university it has become,” says Raymond Bartman.

“Now UConn is known throughout the academic world for its progress in research and innovative programs. And it’s also known for its outstanding athletic teams. We’re pleased to be a small part of UConn’s growth.”