Giving Back in Gratitude

There are as many ways and reasons for why alumni stay connected to WPI as there are alumni. For Gregory Tucker ’92, staying connected to the university is his way of giving back—to support the next generation of students and help ensure WPI remains a leader in higher education. “Whether it’s attending alumni events, mentoring current students, or making a financial contribution, there are many ways to stay involved with WPI and make a difference in the lives of others,” he says.

As with generations of alumni, Tucker was drawn to WPI by its reputed engineering curriculum. But for the self-proclaimed non-traditional thinker, the school’s creative problem-solving culture was also a major draw. “WPI is a highly respected academic institution known for its rigorous engineering programs, signature project-based curriculum, and mission to solve real-world problems, and I wanted to be part of all those things.”

WPI’s comfortable campus size, soccer program, and Alpha Tau Omega brotherhood were also attractive aspects of the school for Tucker. But his scholarship support was the deciding factor for his higher education. “WPI offered me a significant financial aid and scholarship package and made college a possibility in my life. As a student, I was allowed to gain confidence and flourish in my field, and I’ll forever be proud of my with-distinction Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree from WPI.”

Reflecting on his WPI experience, Tucker says, “My time at WPI went by fast; my academic curriculum, rigorous soccer schedule, and Skull and fraternity commitments kept me busy, but I was able to find time to have fun with friends and gain valuable experience and life lessons. My courses gave me the foundation to build a career in manufacturing and leadership. The project work gave me experiences I continue to reference in my current position. The team-based curriculum gave me approaches I use today to encourage me and my colleagues to think and act creatively to solve problems. And the invaluable leadership skills and compassion fostered by Skull and my fraternity stay with me always.”

Following graduation, Tucker spent decades in leadership roles with companies including Thermal Solutions Inc. (TSI), Thermo Fisher Scientific Corporation, Praxair Corporation, and General Electric. Today, the mechanical engineering major is the founder and chief executive officer of ProAmpac, a privately held, global manufacturer of flexible and paper packaging solutions. 

As firm believers in giving back, Tucker and his wife, Corinna Jenkins Tucker, PhD, are involved in and started multiple foundations and non-profit organizations. WPI has been included in their philanthropic giving for decades, and their most recent gift to Beyond These Towers: The Campaign for WPI will support major renovations to the front entrance of Founders Hall.

“Giving back to WPI supports the university’s mission and ensures that future generations of students have access to the same high-quality educational opportunities that I did. I also give to WPI because it is important to me that WPI’s campus is accessible for everyone, regardless of ability. Philanthropic gifts enable scholarships, support project work, and fund campus improvements, and by giving back to WPI, I and my fellow alumni can help ensure the university continues to provide students with a world-class education and prepares them for success in their chosen fields.”