The Brooklyn College community is saddened by the loss of Murray Koppelman ’57, a proud alumnus whose enduring commitment to the college shaped the lives of students for decades. As a trustee, benefactor, and advocate for educational access, he devoted his time and resources to strengthening the institution and creating opportunities for others. Murray Koppelman passed away on August 12 at the age of 95.
A Brooklyn native, Murray served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War before returning home to pursue his education at Brooklyn College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting, graduating cum laude. He credited Brooklyn College with opening doors that shaped the course of his life, and he devoted himself to ensuring that future generations of students would have access to those same opportunities.
“Murray Koppelman never forgot the opportunities Brooklyn College provided him,” said Brooklyn College President Michelle J. Anderson. “As a distinguished alumnus, dedicated trustee, and transformative philanthropist, he worked to make those opportunities possible for others. His generosity and commitment to our students will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”
Murray Koppelman ’57
Murray’s support of Brooklyn College included a landmark gift in 2015, one of the largest contributions in the college’s history. Combined with additional support inspired by his leadership, the gift led to the naming of the Murray Koppelman School of Business and strengthened the college’s ability to prepare students for success in business and beyond.
Anthony R. Castellanos ’85, chair of the Brooklyn College Foundation Board of Trustees, reflected on Murray’s impact:
“Murray understood the power of education to change lives,” Castellanos said. “He believed in Brooklyn College and in the potential of its students. As a valued member of the Brooklyn College Foundation Board of Trustees, he dedicated himself to advancing the mission of the college and supporting its students. We are honored to carry forward his legacy of service to the Brooklyn College community. His generosity helped shape the future of this institution, and his example will continue to inspire all of us.”
Shalei V.K. Simms, dean of the Murray Koppelman School of Business, noted that his values remain central to the school’s mission.
“Mr. Koppelman believed that talent, determination, and opportunity should go hand in hand,” Simms said. “His visionary generosity transformed opportunities for our students and strengthened the school in lasting ways. We are deeply grateful for his transformative generosity, which has left an indelible mark on our students, our school, and the future they will help shape.”
When the School of Business was named in his honor, Murray expressed what mattered most to him:
“If the Murray Koppelman School of Business means that young men and women whose prospects might have been unlikely, improbable, or even impossible have a shot at their dreams, then I can say that I have lived a worthwhile and fulfilling life. And a happy one.”
Throughout his career, Murray built a successful accounting practice, entered investment banking, and founded Eastlake Securities. While his professional accomplishments were significant, he remained committed to service. In addition to his leadership at Brooklyn College, he served as president of American ORT and Brooklyn College Hillel, as a board member of the Anti-Defamation League, and as a trustee and advocate for educational and charitable organizations.
Murray’s legacy is measured not only by his generosity, but by his belief in the transformative power of education. He understood how opportunity can change the trajectory of a life, and he made it his mission to extend that opportunity to others.
On behalf of the entire Brooklyn College community, we extend our deepest condolences to Murray’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and generosity.
We honor Murray Koppelman’s life, his service, and his enduring commitment to educational opportunity.
