Honorees-
Harriet & Robert Heilbrunn

Harriet and Robert Heilbrunn’s long involvement with the University dates back to 1932, when Harriet, a member of the University’s second graduating class, received her bachelor’s degree in languages. She fondly recalls her college years, serving as a captain of the women’s basketball team, president of her sorority and becoming a member of the Philosophy Honor Society. Soon after graduating, she married Robert Heilbrunn who, after attending the Wharton School, began his professional career as a financial advisor and investor. Over the years the Heilbrunns, philanthropists who have supported programs to help individuals overcome obstacles that prevent them from becoming contributing members of society, have given generous financial help to many students at Long Island University’s Brooklyn Campus. In 1997, the Heilbrunns made a $1 million gift endowing the Harriet Rothkopf Heilbrunn Scholarship fund for students who have a high academic standing and are in financial need. One scholarship was earmarked specifically for a student in the School of Nursing. The first recipients of support from the scholarship fund were from Trinidad and Tobago, the Ukraine, Barbados, Jamaica and India. Mrs. Heilbrunn notes with pleasure that these are students who not only have achieved academic excellence, but who also represent the rich diversity of the Brooklyn Campus student body.

The late Mr. Heilbrunn became officially connected to the University, when he received the designation of Honorary Alumnus. The Brooklyn Campus of Long Island University bestowed honorary doctoral degrees upon the couple in 1998 in recognition of their devotion to higher education and their generosity. In 2001, they made another $1 million gift endowing the Heilbrunn Urban Teaching Scholarships to support students who are committed to teaching in New York City’s public schools. In addition to Long Island University, the Heilbrunns have supported many New York City institutions in fields that include the arts, health care, education and scientific research. The Heilbrunns raised two children who have given them three grandchildren and a great grandson.

Mr. Heilbrunn passed away on Sunday, November 18, 2001. The Long Island University family extends its condolences to his wife and family.

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