Peter D. Mauritz '81 Annual Memorial Scholarship
The Peter D. Mauritz ’81 Annual Memorial Scholarship at Bucknell University is being established by Peter's family in his honor following his unexpected death at the age of 61 on June 4, 2021. The purpose of the scholarship is to provide support to students with financial needs at Bucknell University. The scholarship is intended to support a student enrolled in the College of Engineering who is highly motivated to succeed in college and for whom the award will have a significant impact both personally and financially. Hard work, drive and charity were defining characteristics of Peter’s life and, through this scholarship, it is our hope to aid students who demonstrate those same qualitites. All monies contributed through this platform will be utilized to support the establishment of this scholarship.
Peter graduated from Bucknell University in 1981 with a Bachelor's of Science degree. During his time at Bucknell, Peter exemplified the idea of a true student-athlete. As a member of the Bucknell University football team, proudly wearing the number 59 and playing defensive tackle, he was a force to be reckoned with. Standing at a mighty 6 feet tall and weighing at most a paltry 250 pounds, Peter often lined up against opponents bigger than himself. His teammates have remarked that though Peter may have been smaller, he was often the stronger athlete and could amaze with his feats of strength. Until recently, Peter (proudly, we may add) held one of the top spots for most career sacks at Bucknell.
Academically, Peter was no slouch either, majoring in civil engineering, he would end up using his Bucknell education to pursue a distinguished 40-year career in the industry. As lead engineer for many bridge and tunnel designs and for numerous transit, freight, and highway projects, Peter’s works stand today along the East Coast as well as in places as far off as Africa, Canada, and Puerto Rico. While at Bucknell Peter also became a proud member of Phi Gamma Delta, forming countless life-long friendships.
Peter would meet his first wife during his senior year at Bucknell, with whom he would have three children, Nick, Tim and Kaitlyn. The Bucknell tradition in the Mauritz family carried on past Peter to his two sons, Nick and Tim, who also graduated from Bucknell University in 2006 and 2008 respectively. Throughout his life, Peter remained an engaged member of the Bucknell community, as an alumnus, a parent and a true Bison fan. It is our hope to continue honoring his memory and his legacy by supporting this worthy cause.
“Life requires a funny balance – you need to be tough on yourself – it’s the drive to succeed - while not being too overly critical – we are all human. Find that balance.”
– Peter Mauritz in a letter to his children
