Baruch College Fund Raises More Than $1 Million at Annual Bernard Baruch Dinner

April 16, 2024

The Baruch College Fund (BCF) raised more than $1 million at its annual Bernard Baruch Dinner, held on April 8 at New York City's Ziegfeld Ballroom.

This marks eight consecutive years the event has brought in at least $1 million to support the College, as BCF proceeds are used for student scholarships, Baruch's Starr Center, Student Emergency Fund, Bearcat Pantry, and Counseling Center.

The 2024 Dinner-where over 300 people attended-raised another $72,000 that met a scholarship match, triggering an additional $50,000 from BCF Trustee Leon Shivamber ('84) and his wife Leslie.

At the event, Baruch College President S. David Wu welcomed guests by reflecting on Baruch's academic achievements and accolades, and sharing how the institution serves as a model for public education-providing students who are traditionally underrepresented and underserved with access to a world-class education paired with top-notch career and professional development, so that they are equipped for lifetime learning.

Distinguished Alumna Award: Stephanie P. Smith

Stephanie P. Smith (International Marketing and Finance '96), global chief operating officer of equity private markets at BlackRock, received the Distinguished Alumna Award.

At BlackRock, Smith provides dedicated leadership across human capital, technology, and operational functions while partnering with senior leaders to develop strategies and execute solutions across various client priorities, product types, and investments to support the ongoing growth of deployment, distribution, and to deepen client partnerships.

Before joining BlackRock in August 2021, Smith worked at Goldman Sachs for 21 years where she began her career on the Principal Strategies and Investment desk. During her time at Goldman Sachs, Smith held several leadership positions across many of their core businesses focused on business development, transformation, and operational oversight.

Smith serves on several civic, educational, and community-centric boards dedicated to equipping diverse communities with equitable access to information and support that will further their advancement; boards of note include: the Baruch College Fund, Brick Education Foundation, Trinity Hall School and as founder and Chair of Crown Heights Youth Initiative.

William and Anita Newman Medal for Philanthropy: Marvin C. Schwartz

Marvin C. Schwartz (Finance and Investments '62), managing director and portfolio manager of The Straus Group at Neuberger Berman, was the recipient of the William and Anita Newman Medal for Philanthropy.

Schwartz and his wife of 54 years, Donna, believe strongly in giving back, and are long-time supporters of numerous philanthropic causes. One of their charities is African Parks, a South African-based conservation organization Africa that manages 22 national parks and protected areas.

Closer to home, the couple are also supporters of some of New York's important nonprofits, including The United Jewish Appeal, The Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, The Babies Heart Fund at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, Northern Westchester Hospital, The Neuberger Museum of Art on the campus of SUNY Purchase, the Shelburne Museum, the American Folk Art Museum, and the Central Park Conservancy, among others.

Schwartz established the Neuberger Berman/Schwartz Family Chair in Finance at the Zicklin School of Business, creating scholarships for MBA students and championing student excellence initiatives. He was bestowed the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2000 and an Honorary Doctor of Letters in 2002.

Support the Baruch College Fund

Contributions to BCF are ongoing and support Baruch's ability to provide a high-caliber education and open the door to the world for students who might otherwise be denied that opportunity.

Gifts will also help support critical areas of urgent need, including financial aid, emergency grants, technology assistance, career services and faculty support.

Donate to BCF here.

For more info, visit the BCF website.

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