In a community of extraordinary business and civic leaders, Wharton’s Campaign for Sustained Leadership was chaired by individuals who stand out for their dedication and support of the School.
In addition to being innovative leaders in their respective industries, Geoffrey Boisi, WG’71, and Michael Tarnopol, W’58, have contributed time and resources to help the School surpass its original $350-million campaign goal to raise $445.7 million—an accomplishment that ensures future generations of Wharton graduates will be able to carry on their spirit of purpose and achievement.
“Wharton is one of the most important institutions in the world of business today — a real treasure,” Boisi said. “The magnificent result of the Campaign for Sustained Leadership has allowed us to transform the School, allowed us to look forward, to house and accommodate a world-class faculty, to introduce new and innovative research centers and programs. One of the hallmarks of Wharton is the sense of excellence, and that’s part of the DNA of Wharton. We are constantly looking for ways to make ourselves better and to continue the enormous impact we make in business worldwide.”
“I have tremendous pride and allegiance towards Wharton,” Tarnopol said. “It is a great feeling to be associated with one of the best business schools in the world, and it has been an honor to co-chair the Campaign for Sustained Leadership to ensure the School’s future. The results are outstanding, and I am proud of Pat Harker, the Dean, and all of Wharton’s alumni and friends.”
Geoffrey Boisi became the youngest partner of Goldman, Sachs & Co. in 1978, and, as Management Committee partner, was responsible for the firms worldwide investment banking activities. He then became chairman and CEO of The Beacon Group, LLC, a private equity and advisory firm headquartered in New York City. Most recently he served as vice chairman of investment banking at J.P. Morgan Chase & Company. A leader in the Wharton community, Boisi currently serves on the Board of Overseers and was chairman of the Wharton Graduate Executive Board from 1985 to 1991. In 1993, he was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award.
A Global business leader, Michael Tarnopol serves as vice chairman of the Investment Banking Division of Bear, Stearns & Co., Inc. Since joining the company in 1975, he has helped contribute to its success as one of the leading U.S. securities trading, investment banking and brokerage firms, serving an elite clientele of corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. He is also chairman of Bear, Stearns International, Ltd. Tarnopol has long been a leader in the Penn community, serving as a University Trustee and Wharton Overseer. He is the 1997 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.
“As Mickey is fond of saying, ‘the more we give, the more we receive,’” said Associate Dean of External Affairs Steven Oliveira. “And indeed, much has been given. Both Mickey and Geoff were critical components to the campaign’s success. This has been a campaign of transformational leadership, and it could not have been accomplished without their support. We are deeply grateful to them.”
