Celebrating Philanthropy

It was an evening to give back to those who give, as more than 180 guests gathered on May 8 for Montclair State University’s Donor Celebration, held in the School of Communication and Media. The festive event featured a program in Presentation Hall followed by a reception in the lobby, marked by views of the New York City skyline.

Welcoming guests, Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Rita Walters shared, “This evening is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the important role philanthropy plays in the growth of Montclair State University and in improving the lives of our students and the world around us.”

“It is important for us to come together as a community of donors and celebrate the power of philanthropy,” she added.

Among the invited guests were members of the President’s Club, which is the University’s leadership annual giving society; the Carpe Diem Society, those who have committed legacy gifts; and members of the 1908 Loyalty Society, donors who give consecutively, some of whom have been donating to Montclair every year for more than 30 years. Bloomfield College of Montclair State University donors attended as well.

In his remarks, Montclair President Jonathan Koppell shared updates on the University’s progress, partnerships and purpose. “We believe students from all backgrounds are deserving of a high quality, affordable education…which Montclair delivers,” said Koppell. “We come together tonight to thank you for your generous support of our mission. We can’t achieve our important work without you.”

President Koppell urged the audience to join in opposing proposed funding cuts that will negatively impact Bloomfield College of Montclair State University and Montclair State University students by visiting fundmontclairandbloomfield.com. The platform provides customizable email language to send to state legislators to show support for equitable higher education funding in New Jersey.

Students share gratitude

Alumnus Greg Collins, chair of the Montclair State University Foundation, expressed his appreciation to donors and introduced the student segment of the program, which included remarks from three student speakers. “Your generous support across all areas of the University has directly helped our students,” he shared. “From providing support for scholarships, internships, research opportunities, campus programs and more, you are making a difference.”

“I am so grateful that I can attend an institution this precious with this much financial support,” said Ethan Garcia, a junior at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University who is double majoring in Creative Arts and Technology and Business Administration and serves in multiple campus leadership positions.

“I thank you all as donors for your continuous support of Bloomfield and Montclair and for believing in our school’s mission to serve students like me,” said Garcia. “I would not be where I am today without your help.”

Julie Baker, a sophomore Exercise Science major with a concentration in Pre-Professional Studies, shared her gratitude for the opportunity to get so much from her Montclair experience, including being a member of the Montclair women’s soccer team and the Montclair honors program, a Presidential Scholarship recipient, earning dean’s list each semester and serving as as ambassador for The Hidden Opponent, a club for athlete’s mental health.

“As donors, you make it possible for students to succeed at Montclair,” said Baker. “After completing my Bachelor in Science, I hope to continue my education in nursing… I am confident in my abilities that Montclair has taught me and will continue to teach me.”

“Receiving scholarships during my time at Montclair took a weight off my shoulders and allowed me to live on campus,” shared Aracelly Cabrejo, a senior who majored in Accounting and will be attending graduate school in the fall.

“Being able to live on campus opened other opportunities for me to learn and grow as a leader. I wouldn’t have been able to experience this without scholarship support, so I thank you as generous donors for making opportunities like this possible and enhancing so many students’ lives,” said Cabrejo.

Showcasing the University’s arts excellence, Department of Theatre and Dance students performed selections from the production of Sophisticated Ladies. Amidst an array of food stations and the serenade of live music by the student jazz trio, guests mingled and interacted with fellow donors and students.

“Montclair delivers transformational opportunities to students from all backgrounds, and we are grateful for our community of donors for sharing their time, resources and energy to help make this University everything it can be,” says Walters.

View more photos from the event.

Story by Development Communications Director Laura Iandiorio. Photos by John J. LaRosa for Montclair State University.

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