Montclair State University announced on April 8 that alumni Rose Cali ’80 and Ori Eisen ’97 will be honored for their careers and public service at the first Celebrate Montclair gala, scheduled for April 16. The event aims to recognize the university’s impact through its graduates.
The recognition of Cali and Eisen highlights Montclair State University’s commitment to fostering excellence, community engagement, and student support. The proceeds from the gala will establish the President’s Carpe Futurum Fund, which is intended to advance university priorities such as scholarships, research initiatives, and partnerships.
“Rose and Ori exemplify the very best of Montclair State University,” said Montclair President Jonathan Koppell. “Rose exemplifies the spirit of community and generosity that we seek to cultivate. Ori has had a remarkable career launched by his years at Montclair. In different ways, each has transformed lives and communities while remaining closely connected to the values and mission that define Montclair.”
Cali has served in several roles at the university including as Trustee since 1991, Foundation Board member, John J. Cali School of Music Advisory Board member, as well as founder of the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center. Her family’s contributions have supported music scholarships through an endowed gift benefiting hundreds of students. “I love to attend events and concerts at the University and especially enjoy attending performances by the amazingly talented students from the Cali School,” says Cali.
Eisen is recognized for his work in online fraud prevention after serving as Worldwide Fraud Director for American Express before founding companies such as 41st Parameter (later acquired by Experian) and Trusona. He also established philanthropic projects like Ball to All charity for children worldwide. Together with Mirit Eisen, he created a mental health fund supporting student well-being initiatives at Montclair State University using evidence-based programs. “We wanted to support the students of Montclair State University with a groundbreaking program for mental well-being… Giving students tools to cope with stress… is a dream come true,” says Eisen.
Montclair State University enrolls about 23,546 students across undergraduate and graduate levels according to its official website. More than half are from underrepresented minority groups; it serves as New Jersey’s largest Hispanic-Serving Institution according to its official website. The campus spans multiple municipalities including Montclair, Little Falls, Clifton, and Bloomfield according to its official website over a suburban area totaling 252 acres according to its official website.
The university integrates liberal arts education with professional training while emphasizing academic excellence through inclusive access according to its official website. It has been ranked among New Jersey’s top public universities in value measures such as social mobility according to its official website.
“The Carpe Futurum Fund is designed to ensure Montclair continues to expand opportunity, invest in innovation and deepen our impact in the communities we serve. By supporting our students, our research and our partnerships, this fund will help us build a future that is more inclusive and responsive to the challenges of our time,” says Koppell.
