JEROME CHAZEN

CHAZEN--Jerome, '50BUS, Trustee Emeritus The President and Trustees of Columbia University mourn the passing of Jerome (Jerry) Chazen, trustee emeritus, alumnus, benefactor, advisor, and beloved friend of the University. After graduating from Columbia Business School in 1950, Jerry launched a successful business career. In 1976, he was among four partners who established Liz Claiborne, Inc., and helped build it into one of the world's most successful and well managed apparel companies. In 1997, he founded Chazen Capital Partners, a private investment partnership that invests in both traditional and new economy businesses. Under Jerry's innovative leadership, Liz Claiborne embraced a global business strategy crucial to its success. That same vision led him to establish the Jerome A. Chazen Institute for Global Business at Columbia Business School in 1991. The Institute is an interdisciplinary center for teaching, research, and collaboration in an increasingly globalized business environment that Jerry was among the first to identify. Jerry was a loyal alumnus of Columbia Business School and his leadership and generosity were crucial there and throughout the University community. He served on the University's Board of Trustees from 1995-2002 and chaired the Committee on Community Affairs. At the Business School, he was a member of the Board for more than three decades and supported countless students and faculty. His generosity was also felt at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he supported cardiology research and treatment, as well as the construction of the Vagelos Education Center. His life-long appreciation for jazz was reflected in his dedication to scholarship and performance at Columbia's Center for Jazz Studies. Along with his wife, Simona, Jerry was a devoted philanthropist whose impact extended well beyond the University. Avid collectors of modern and contemporary art, they founded the Chazen Museum of Art at the University of Wisconsin, where Jerry received his bachelor's degree and an honorary doctorate. He also served on the boards of numerous arts, health care, and other charitable organizations in New York City and beyond. We extend our deepest sympathies to Simona; their children, grandchildren, and great- grandchild; immediate and extended family; friends; and all who feel Jerry's loss. Through his vision, generosity, and friendship, he leaves a legacy at Columbia and beyond that will resonate for years to come.