In Memoriam: Angelo R. Cali ’36 Hon. ’79

Angelo R. Cali ’36 Hon. ’79 (center) with students from
Montclair State’s very first Study Abroad trip to Sicily in
summer 2006. Mr. Cali’s generosity helped to make Montclair
State’s study abroad program accessible for all students. Far
right: philanthropist and community leader Cav. Joseph
Coccia, Jr., founder of the Joseph and Elda Coccia Institute
for the Italian Experience in America.

The entire Montclair State University community was saddened at the passing in December 2006 of Angelo R. Cali '36 Hon. '79, a longtime Montclair State University Foundation Board member and a great friend of the University. A beloved humanitarian and dedicated officer in mental health organizations, Mr. Cali served on the Montclair State University Foundation Board for over three decades.

Mr. Cali received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1936 from the Montclair State Normal School (now Montclair State University), and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Montclair State in 1979 for exemplary contributions in the field of education.

A World War II veteran, Mr. Cali was an ardent supporter of education. For
three years, he served as the director of adult education in Clifton, increasing its enrollment ten-fold in one year. For four years, he served on the South Orange/ Maplewood Adult School Board. He was president of the Essex County Mental Health Association for three years and vice president of the state Mental Health Board for two years, serving on the board a total of 30 years.

He was a co-founder and senior partner of Cali Associates with Edward Leshowitz '36, his childhood friend and Montclair State classmate, and his brother John. Now known as Mack-Cali Realty Corporation, the company is one of New Jersey's largest and most successful businesses.

Mr. Cali was an enthusiastic supporter of his alma mater, including student
scholarships, the Annual Fund, the Italian Studies program and the John J. Cali School of Music. His children John, Angela and Joanne have established the Angelo and Mary Cali Fund for Italian Studies, which will support research and education in Italian Studies at Montclair State.

Students, faculty and staff all have benefited from Mr. Cali's generosity and wisdom. He is sorely missed.