What would inspire Gerald “Jerry” Appelstein, a highly successful venture capitalist who never attended Montclair State, to support the University with such fervor?
“Montclair State University is a diamond in the Garden State,” he says. “It is a magical place that is providing largely underrepresented populations of students with instruction, facilities and platforms at the highest levels.”
Then again, Jerry has a good eye for such things. As President of Applehouse LLC, he is accustomed to spotting—and pursuing—promising investments. Montclair State quickly became a priority for him. He joined the University’s College of the Arts Advisory Board and the Montclair State Foundation Board and became co-chair of the Foundation Board’s Development Committee and chair of the President’s Club, the University’s giving society for donors who give $1,000 or more.
Eager to create opportunities for students, Jerry established the Lori Katterhenry Dance Scholarship Fund in honor of the retired Director of Dance. He also named Montclair State as a beneficiary in his will to support the President Susan A. Cole Scholarship, which will ensure that promising and ambitious New Jersey students have the opportunity for an excellent education at Montclair State despite any economic and social challenges they may face.
Jerry’s passion for the University is inspiring. “I believe in the mission,” he says. “If you think the American dream matters, then this is where you can make it happen.” And, he adds, “I love being part of a community that truly focuses on the success of our students, holding itself to the high standards required for a society that can and must do better.”
Your passion for Montclair State University can live on and impact the lives of others with a gift in your estate plan. To learn more, contact Ely F. Santoni, CFRE at 973-655-3695 or santonituere@montclair.edu.