The Division of Residential and Hospitality Services (RHS) has named Victoria Bucher the 2026 recipient of the Robert C. Underwood (RCU) Scholarship, recognizing her commitment to service, leadership and academic achievement.
Bucher, a first‑generation college student, was singled out by the selection committee for her contributions to the Spartan community while balancing rigorous academic work and employment.
“It was so surreal and exciting to find out that I received the Robert C. Underwood Scholarship. I was pleased that the committee considered me an appropriate recipient and acknowledged my commitment to RHS,” Bucher says. “My position in REHS [Residence Education and Housing Services] has taught me so many valuable skills, such as collaboration, problem‑solving and leadership.”
Leading the Way
The RCU Scholarship, established in 1998 to honor Robert C. Underwood’s years of service as assistant vice president for the division, awards $2,000 to a student team member within RHS who demonstrates leadership and commitment to excellence. The scholarship is funded by WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems Inc., MSU’s laundry equipment and service partner since 1984.
As a level 3 special operations supervisor, Bucher supervises student team members and helps shape residential life on campus. She describes the most rewarding part of her role as the ability to positively influence many Spartans’ experiences. “What I enjoy most about my position at RHS is that I can leave a positive mark on so many Spartans’ experiences. I love knowing that the work that all of RHS does is what helps create a welcoming and engaging environment for students and that our efforts contribute to making the campus feel like home for so many people.”
Her supervisor, Noreen Dunsmore‑Smith, praises Bucher’s work ethic and dedication to service. “Victoria is an invaluable member of my team who always goes above and beyond to provide the best possible service to both her team and to the residents on campus we serve. She is a dedicated, hard worker and puts her all into everything she does, and I am incredibly proud to have her on my team.”
Next Stop: Law School
Dajon (DJ) Murphy, chair of the RCU Scholarship Committee, highlights how the award supports students who balance work and study while preparing for future careers. “Victoria is a first‑generation college student who currently has a 3.88 GPA while focusing on judicial politics, public policy and American law. After graduation, she plans to attend law school to strengthen her knowledge to eventually advocate for people who don’t have the resources or platform to represent for themselves.”
Murphy goes on to explain, “She is a prime example of how we would like our students to grow and develop during their time at MSU and in RHS. This scholarship is beneficial to helping our amazing students excel by alleviating some financial stress and acknowledging their hard work and dedication to better themselves in all aspects of life.”
Bucher expressed gratitude for the recognition and for the financial support in a letter to the committee. “Receiving this scholarship not only eases the financial burden of my education but also motivates me to continue striving toward my goals.”
As she pursues those goals, Bucher says she’ll carry forward the skills and lessons learned through her work in REHS. “In this role, I have learned how to communicate effectively in high-pressure situations, support and lead my peers, and make decisions that prioritize the well-being of others,” Bucher goes on to say in her letter.
“These experiences have strengthened my sense of responsibility and reinforced my commitment to serving my community. I carry these lessons with me not only in my academic journey but also as I prepare for a future in law, where advocacy, integrity and collaboration are essential.”