Honoring Philanthropy
A celebratory evening to thank University donors for their generous support.
Posted in: Montclair State University Donors, University News

More than 150 of Montclair State University’s ardent supporters gathered on April 23 for a Donor Celebration, held in the Alexander Kasser Theater. Showing gratitude to donors for their support of the University, the event featured a reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, food stations and dessert followed by the Montclair State University Symphony Orchestra’s culminating concert of the season.
The Montclair State University Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Kyle Ritenauer, is composed of undergraduate and graduate students and performs repertoire from all periods by classical and modern composers. The concert included works by IMR composer Jake Runestad, Artist in Residence Daniel Bernard Roumain, student winners of the John J. Cali School of Music’s annual concerto competition for voice and piano, and Mussorgsky’s colorful masterpiece Pictures at an Exhibition. The concert also featured artist Helena Chywski painting in real time to the music.
Click on an image below to enlarge photo.
Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Rita Walters welcomed guests, sharing, “It is terrific to spend time together and be able to thank you personally for supporting Montclair and our amazing students.”
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.
“Never has it been more important to underscore the role of philanthropy in building a great University and in supporting our fantastic students,” said Montclair President Jonathan Koppell in addressing guests.
“Making the highest level of education available to everyone is, was and always will be the purpose of this institution,” said Koppell. “Thank you for your philanthropic investment … and helping us give our students the quality education they deserve.”
View more photos from the event.