AUBG thrives on its community. Alongside the major donors, whether successful alumni or dedicated supporters, are the staff and faculty who give back through their dedication, work, loyalty, and financial contributions.
For them, it’s not about the size of the donation but the appreciation and respect they have for the AUBG community that motivates them to give back in multiple ways.
Meet just a few of the staff and faculty members who have supported the $1 million matching grant challenge by the America for Bulgaria Foundation (ABF) and have contributed to making AUBG such an amicable and united institution. Hear their stories of what this community means to them and why they continue to give back with an open heart.
Daniela Kovacheva-Kukoleva
Daniela Kovacheva-Kukoleva is the Senior Accountant (Student Billing) at AUBG. Her heart has been set on AUBG since she stepped foot in 1993. “I feel like I have fully embraced the mission of the university,” she shared.
Kukoleva was drawn to AUBG by its democratic values, the flexibility it offers students and faculty, and its diverse, international community. Witnessing students and staff grow and become “friends of AUBG”, has instilled in her the culture of giving back.
“I grew up with the idea that if I can help our institution, then I should. If that means raising a significant amount, I want to be part of that process. This is my way of showing support for the university, even if my individual contribution is small,” she shared.
But Kukoleva’s contributions go beyond the monetary gifts. “I donate through my work,” she said. In return, she receives a supportive community. “The environment itself rewards me. It gives me the opportunity to succeed on my own.” Her commitment to AUBG even inspired her two children to study here – a choice she never imposed but naturally encouraged through her passion and dedication.
Daniela is fond of the liberal arts education system, which motivates her to continue giving back.
“Students graduate with a very strong sense that they can chart their own paths and make a difference in society. They develop critical thinking skills and grow into leaders during their time at AUBG.”
At work, she feels welcomed and valued – another reason to contribute.
“The community left a lasting impression on me from the moment I arrived. The leadership always acknowledges faculty, students, and staff. At the state university, there was no such recognition. Here, our contributions are always acknowledged,” she shared.
Albena Kehayova (EMBA ‘16)
Albena Keyhayova has been part of AUBG for 20 years now and is currently the Director of the Office of Communications and Marketing. “AUBG is my home,” she says.
She feels that her job is rewarding not just because of her colleagues, “who have become lifelong friends”, but because she can help shape a brighter future for students, grounded in quality education. “This is where I’ve seen lives transform, dreams take flight, and futures built,” she said.
On her motivation to donate for the ABF Matching Challenge, Kehayova answered: “AUBG gave me so much—this is my way of saying thank you and ensuring that others can experience the same life-changing opportunities.”
Over the 20 years she’s been here, Kehayova has developed a strong sense of belonging. “The AUBG community is my family, deeply embedded in my heart and soul. I’ve seen students walk in unsure of themselves and leave as confident, world-ready leaders.”
She hopes her contribution will create a ripple effect, helping ease tuition burdens for students and empowering them to pursue their passion. She also wishes to support the dedicated work of professors who shape young minds and futures.
“And for AUBG as a whole, I hope it strengthens this incredible institution that has given so much to so many.”
For Kehayova, giving back, even in small ways, sends a powerful message that “we are in this together”. It shows students that we believe in them and in the future of AUBG.”
She concluded: “This community has given me so much—a sense of belonging, purpose, and endless inspiration. Giving back is my way of honoring that. It’s my way of saying, ‘You matter, and I believe in you.’”
Prof. Jeffrey Nilsen
Jeffrey Nilsen, professor in Economics, has taken the opportunity to honor the women closest to his heart through this donation.
“My mother, sister, and wife were formative figures in my life, and I wanted to give back in their memory,” he shared.
His second motivation is to inspire academic excellence. “I want students to benefit from studying hard. The more good students you have, the more the attitude spreads. So, for selfish reasons, I want excellent students in my class,” he laughed.
Professor Nilsen explained that for some scholarships, including the one he established, students must obtain a certain GPA to continue receiving support. This helps attract high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds who uplevel the entire institution and serve as inspiration for their peers.
Seeing AUBG graduates succeed brings him immense pride. “When I look at what our graduates have done, it’s amazing. We have alumni teaching at NYU, the University of Toronto, Tilburg University, and many more. They are making a real impact, and it starts a snowball effect. I’m proud of them. I’m proud of the job they’re doing,” he shared.
Having worked at AUBG since 2005, Professor Nilsen has immersed himself in Bulgarian culture and dedicated himself to student success. Giving back strengthens his connection to the AUBG community.
“If you’re benefiting from an institution, it’s only natural to give something back. You start to feel a part of. It’s another way to contribute, alongside trying to motivate students and then contributing to their development. It’s part of the same thing,” he concluded.
Valentin Kovachev
The culture of giving back has been instilled in Valentin Kovachev, Purchasing Specialist/Customs and Mail, since he joined AUBG more than 30 years ago. For him, donating is a way to express gratitude and engagement with the institution.
“One of my sons is graduating from AUBG this year, and the other is starting next year. AUBG has given me a lot, especially the opportunity to educate my children here and benefit from the employee perks that come with that,” he shared.
Kovachev believes in maintaining a balance between what he receives and what he gives back. He was inspired by major past donors, including Dimi Panitza, who set an example of generosity early on in AUBG’s history. He has donated not only to the ABF Matching Challenge but also contributes annually.
“My donations may not be significant on their own, but when staff and faculty unite in giving back, we might be able to secure a scholarship that provides students from low-income backgrounds with access to quality education,” he shared.
For Kovachev, AUBG is not just a workplace – it’s a community, whose growth he’s witnessed over the years. “I am grateful to have such a progressive institution in our small town. Many locals recognize its positive impact on Blagoevgrad,” he said.
These are only some of the stories of the dedicated staff and faculty members who continuously give back through financial donations and their loyalty and respect for the institution. Together with the alumni and all of the supporters of AUBG, the community grows stronger and stronger. Thank you!
