For Laszlo Beres (CAS’67), the road to Boston University was an exceptionally long one—stretching all the way from his hometown of Buj, Hungary, which he fled along with his family one wintry night in the midst of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.

“Neither of my parents went to college,” says Beres, who was just 12 when he arrived in the United States. “My father operated a drill press and my mother worked in a sweatshop.” Even while learning a new language and culture, Beres developed a strong interest in chemistry and quickly realized he would need a college degree to work in the field. He says he chose BU for several reasons, one above all: “BU was very generous in financial aid.”

The University gave Beres a scholarship and a small loan, and he covered his room and board by operating the switchboard at Myles Standish Hall while he pursued a chemistry degree. His gratitude for the scholarship support continues to this day. Beres has recognized the importance of that support for nearly two decades by making regular gifts to the CAS Fund. The fund supports a host of priorities across CAS, including financial aid.

“BU was the beginning of my career,” says Beres, whose degree laid the groundwork for a PhD and a successful 26-year career in biochemistry research and product development. “I feel indebted to the University for giving me the chance to make it in this country, to get ahead.”

Please visit bu.edu/cas/impactx2 or contact Steve Kean, chief advancement officer, at 617-358-1214 to learn more about giving to CAS.