An Inspired Investment

John E. Buehler, Jr., hasn't forgotten the sacrifices his parents made for him. The only child of a meat cutter and switchboard operator, Buehler grew up in a two-bedroom house in Syracuse, N.Y., sharing a room with his maternal grandmother. When he was admitted to Boston College, his parents were determined to find a way to afford the tuition.

"They scrimped and saved so that I could go to BC," says Buehler, who graduated in 1969 and is now a managing partner at Energy Investors Funds Group (EIF), a private-equity firm based in California.

His parents' struggle coupled with the role that BC has played in his life inspired Buehler to make a $1 million gift to BC. The bulk of the gift will establish The Mr. and Mrs. John E. Buehler, Sr., Scholarship Fund, a financial aid fund for undergraduates in the College of Arts and Sciences named in honor of Buehler's parents.

"I had a tremendous experience at BC. It opened up my horizons," says Buehler. "This school has played a seminal role in my life."

After college, Buehler spent four years in the navy before returning to study English and attend Suffolk University Law School. After practicing with a Boston law firm for three years, Buehler served as associate counsel in the Investment Law Division of John Hancock. When the opportunity arose in 1989 to start a private-equity fund, he didn't hesitate. "I never considered myself a business person, but I knew enough to see a growth opportunity." The fact that Boston College today is a truly international university and attracts top students and faculty makes Buehler proud. "My parents encouraged me to help others if I was ever in a position to do so. BC transforms the kids it educates. It's a privilege to be able to give back."