Montclair State University announced on April 8 that alumni Rose Cali ’80 and Ori Eisen ’97 will be honored for their distinguished careers and public service at the inaugural Celebrate Montclair gala, scheduled for Thursday, April 16. The event aims to recognize the excellence and impact of the university’s mission.
The gala is significant as it highlights individuals who have made notable contributions both within the university community and beyond. Proceeds from the event will go toward establishing the President’s Carpe Futurum Fund, which will support scholarships, research, and partnerships intended to benefit students and communities served by Montclair State University.
“Rose and Ori exemplify the very best of Montclair State University,” said 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 held various roles at Montclair State University since graduating in 1980, including serving as a Trustee starting in 1991, participating on foundation boards, and founding the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center. She also established an endowed scholarship fund for music students with her late husband John through support of the John J. Cali School of Music. Beyond campus involvement, she has contributed to organizations such as the Montclair Public Library, Liberty Science Center, Jazz House Kids, among others. “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’s career focuses on fighting online crime; he served as Worldwide Fraud Director for American Express before founding fraud prevention companies like 41st Parameter (later acquired by Experian) and Trusona. He also established Ball to All charity providing soccer balls globally for children in need; founded Original Films; volunteers with Thorn; and supports student mental health through establishing Eisen Mental Health Fund at his alma mater alongside Mirit Eisen: “We wanted to support the students of Montclair State University with a groundbreaking program for mental well-being… Giving students tools… is a dream come true.”
Montclair State University’s main campus spans across several New Jersey municipalities including Montclair, Little Falls, Clifton, and Bloomfield according to its official website. The institution enrolls around 23,546 students—approximately 18,062 undergraduates plus about 4,508 graduate students according to its official website. More than half are from underrepresented minority groups; it is recognized as New Jersey’s largest Hispanic-Serving Institution according to its official website.
The university operates on a suburban campus covering roughly 252 acres with extensive academic facilities developed since its beginnings in one building according to its official website. It emphasizes integrating liberal arts education with professional training—preparing graduates for societal challenges via academic excellence inclusive access community engagement according to its official website. Nationally ranked among top public institutions in value social mobility metrics—including Wall Street Journal’s “Best Colleges” guide—the university continues efforts broadening opportunity through initiatives like ONE DAY for Montclair campaign totals according to its official website.
“The Carpe Futurum Fund is designed to ensure Montclair continues to expand opportunity invest in innovation deepen our impact in communities we serve… this fund will help us build a future that is more inclusive responsive challenges our time,” says Koppell.
