Since arriving at Bloomfield College, College President, Richard A. Levao and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, William H. Turner III, have established their leadership in many ways, including embracing and encouraging the importance of philanthropy for the College's future.
For many donors, the most realistic way to make a significant gift to Bloomfield College is through their estates. Levao and Turner have quietly made the selfless pledge to bestow nearly $1.5 million dollars combined to the College.
"This seven-figure investment from the leadership of Bloomfield College speaks volumes to the level of commitment both these dignified leaders have made to the College, its students, and its mission," said Jackie Bartley, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. "As we near the College's 150th anniversary, I have no doubt the legacy they are leaving behind will continue to positively impact the College for the next 150 years."
Levao and Turner, both alumni of other institutions, believe in the charge of Bloomfield College and its students. Since 1868, the institution has been dedicated to supporting the underrepresented youth of New Jersey, and beyond, in acquiring skills, fortitude, and services needed to access and succeed in college.
"Many years ago, my wife, Judy, and I made a commitment to put a percentage of our income toward our philanthropic interests," said William H. Turner. "Bloomfield College is an extraordinary place that transforms lives, which is why Judy and I consider this a very significant philanthropic endeavor."
Turner, with successful careers in both Banking and Education, joined the Bloomfield College Board of Trustees in 2011 and was elected Chair in 2015. He was designated Chair because of his devotion to the College as well as his adoration for the students.
For over 34 years, Turner served in many capacities with Chase Bank and its predecessor, Chemical Bank, including Senior Vice President of the International Division-Middle East & Africa. He later assumed the position of Vice Chairman of Chase. He served as President and Co-CEO of Franklin Electronic Publishers, and President and CEO of PNC Bank. He also formerly served as Senior Advisor for Opera Solutions.
After retiring from banking, Turner was the Founding Dean of the College of Business at Stony Brook University and later assumed the role of Acting Dean of the Business School at Montclair State University. In addition, for over 35 years, he has served on the board of International College of Beirut, including the role of Chairman for the past 30 years.
Richard A. Levao, who practiced law for 29 years and was a partner at the national law firm Drinker Biddle & Reath, has served as President of Bloomfield College for the last 13 years. He is a fixture on campus, attending many student and faculty run events, including the students' Capstone presentations at the end of each spring semester. He is front row center at many a function, always smiling and knowing most of the community, students included, by name. He is dedicated to bettering the lives of all who enroll at the College.
Levao currently serves as Chair of the New Jersey Presidents' Council. He is also a member of the Executive Board of the World Technopolis Association, an affiliate of UNESCO, located in Daejon, South Korea.
Bloomfield College is on the cutting edge of innovation in higher education, offering over 60 majors and concentrations in seven academic divisions. The College is ranked as one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Bloomfield College is a unique institution offering students access to a private, affordable college education. About 52% of students are African American and 27.5% of students are Hispanic. Bloomfield College is a wonderful institution where bold and courageous students from all corners of the globe find success they might not have otherwise achieved.
With the College in the midst of a Capital Campaign, both gifts from these honorable front runners demonstrate tangible philanthropic leadership.
