MICHAEL OSHEOWITZ Obituary

OSHEOWITZ--Michael W. The Trustees and staff of the Edwin Gould Foundation deeply mourn the loss of our beloved friend, colleague and Chairman Emeritus, Michael W. Osheowitz. Over the past half-century Michael has done more than any other person to further the goal of educational equity in this country. His efforts at the Edwin Gould Foundation and at Sponsors for Educational Opportunity have deeply affected the lives of over 30,000 young people, breaking the bonds on poverty and social stagnation and ensuring their success for generations to come. We offer our deep condolences to his loving wife of nearly 60 years Maria, his daughters Melita Osheowitz and Tania Gold, son-in-law Dr. Steven Gold, grandchildren Jonah, Eli and Aden and sister Audrey Rutheiser. We are forever indebted to them for sharing Michael with us and the thousands of young people whose lives have been permanently altered for the good by Michael's vision and efforts on their behalf. All of us who loved him - particularly in these difficult times - commit to devoting ourselves to fulfilling his vision in the years to come. May his memory be a blessing and a constant source of inspiration to all of us working to fulfill our dream of fairness and equity of opportunity for all. Mark Bieler, Chairman Cynthia Rivera Weissblum, Chief Executive Officer

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Published by New York Times on Mar. 25, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL OSHEOWITZ

9 Entries

Michelle Wagner

April 2, 2025

The last time I saw Michael was when I attended his 80th birthday celebration at a SEO event in NYC several years ago. That same year, I had gone to his home in NY for a wonderful dinner with him, Maria and Tania. At that time, I hadn't seen Michael since I was a child. I am sad to hear this news. My condolences to his family and the SEO community.

Eugene Wagner

April 1, 2025

Michael was my cousin and we were very close growing up
He was always kind and thoughtful.
I’m sure he used those traits carries into adulthood where he helped so many thousands of
Underprivileged children attain success.
He was truly a pioneer

Jani Caro

March 30, 2025

I was so sad to hear of Michael´s death. I have such wonderful memories as a young teenager being a mother´s helper in your house helping take care of Tania and Melita. It was so joyous because of the warmth of your household It was my first babysitting job and I loved it especially in how I learned so much from both parents and the sweet kids. I think back to those day so often as they were so joyous. My love goes out to all of you at this time of great sadness. Love, Jani Caro

Timothy Halpern

March 29, 2025

Michael was my friend, mentor and client. I loved him deeply. I pledge to further his mission forever

Tim Halpern
Chair and CEO
CPR

Milagros D. Garcia-Jackson

March 28, 2025

Michael Osheowitz paved the way for children of color from impoverished neighborhoods to access higher education. I vividly recall the early days of SEO, operating from a brownstone in a wealthy neighborhood where many residents actively sought to exclude them, driven by racial prejudice. Michael faced relentless opposition, an uphill battle fought for years. Despite this, SEO flourished, garnering recognition for its remarkable success stories. Its expansion into global programs, including pathways to Wall Street banking and corporate law, shattered barriers, opening doors to dream jobs previously inaccessible to children of color. This transformative work turned heads in both the non-profit and corporate sectors. Today, Michael's legacy stands strong, a testament to his unwavering commitment, and will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Robert Schweich

March 28, 2025

Mike was an amazing individual and good friend for more than 40 years due to our common interest in the original SEO Scholars program which provided outstanding participants for my summer international travel programs.

Sue Toigo

March 27, 2025

Michael was a champion for decency, fairness, and opening doors to new talent. He will be mourned by all of us who knew and admired him. His important work will live on as a legacy to his vision. I join you in honoring his memory with love and deep respect.

Dominique Nahas

March 25, 2025

Just read his obit in The NY Times. Looking over his life and achievements it´s clear Michael Osheowitz was a smart, compassionate, ethical human being. May his memory be a blessing.

allison ansel

March 25, 2025

He was truly an inspiration. He spent his time doing something so worthy and important, but also was deeply committed to his family; everyone who knew him was lucky.

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