On November 9, 2007, Dr. Peter P. Mercer, president of Ramapo College, announced the establishment of the Sabrin Center for Free Enterprise in the Anisfield School of Business.  Initial funding for the Center came from a $250,000 gift from Dr. Murray Sabrin, a professor of finance and executive director of the college’s Center for Business and Public Policy, and his wife, Florence.

“We believe that our gift will have a major impact on the education of Anisfield School of Business students,” said Dr. Sabrin.  He and Mrs. Sabrin are committed to having their gift and the income it generates used for scholarships, faculty research and programmatic needs.  The Center also will provide an opportunity for the Anisfield School of Business to conduct community outreach.

The first installment of the gift, in December, was used to create an endowment for the exclusive use of the Sabrin Center for Free Enterprise.  An executive director will be appointed to begin organizing the Center and to seek support for future activities from corporations, foundations and individuals. The Sabrin Center for Free Enterprise began operation in the 2008 – 2009 academic year.  The Ramapo College Foundation will administer the Sabrin’s gift.

“It is always special in the life of a college when faculty members and their families contribute financially in a way that complements their intellectual contributions,” said Dr. Mercer.

Cathleen Davey, vice president and executive director of the Ramapo College Foundation said, “The Sabrins often speak about giving back and helping others.  With this gift, they bring to fruition their dream and set a wonderful example for our faculty to emulate.”

Added Dr. Sabrin, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Florence and me to provide a lasting legacy to Ramapo College, which gave me the opportunity to achieve my career goal.”  The couple resides in Ft. Lee, New Jersey.