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Hofstra University launched a $100 million capital campaign – only the second in Hofstra’s 70-year-history. Board of Trustees and Capital Campaign Committee Chair John D. Miller made the formal announcement at the 10th Annual Gala on May 4.

The Campaign for Hofstra University, as it is officially known, is aimed at increasing the University’s endowment and strengthening Hofstra’s reputation as a national center of academic excellence. The campaign’s official slogan is “Share the pride. Shape the future.”

“These funds will help us enhance our already strong academic infrastructure, increase scholarships and attract nationally-known scholars to the Hofstra campus,” said President Stuart Rabinowitz. “This will be Hofstra’s first capital campaign in almost 20 years and is a critical initiative for our advancement.” Hofstra’s endowment has grown from $100 million three years ago to about $185 million today.

The campaign received a boost at the Gala when Helene Fortunoff, who was honored for her many years of service to and support of Hofstra, announced her gift of $1 million to the University. That brings the total committed so far to more than $67 million. Mrs. Fortunoff is president emeritus of Fortunoff and a member and former chair of the Board of Trustees.

“Hofstra University has been very fortunate to have Helene Fortunoff not only as a generous donor but also as a trustee whose astute business acumen has helped guide this institution over the years,” President Rabinowitz said.

In her speech at the gala, Mrs. Fortunoff said, “I am honored to be involved in a scholarship program that brings us diverse students who want the best in education, the best in campus life, the best in artistic and creative experiences, and the best opportunities as we prepare them for vocational and personal excellence.” She quoted Benjamin Disraeli: “A university should be a place of light, of liberty and of learning,” and went on to say, “There is no doubt this quote describes Hofstra.”

Mrs. Fortunoff, who received an honorary degree from Hofstra, established the fine jewelry division of Westbury-based Fortunoff, which evolved into an important part of the company’s business. She also serves as chair of the Gemological Institute of America’s board of governors.

At the Gala, Mr. Miller introduced some of the donors who had contributed $1 million or more to the campaign. Mr. Miller himself this year gave Hofstra $6 million – the largest gift ever by an individual to the University. He also wrote a letter for the Capital Campaign brochure in which he recalled his own reasons for giving back to the University.

“During my time as a student at Hofstra, I found knowledgeable and wise men and women who challenged me, motivated me, and pointed me toward success," he wrote. "Since then, I have seen the value of my education confirmed many times over. With each passing year, my gratitude for my Hofstra experience has only grown – as has my desire to give back as fully as I received.”