At last weeks event, the interim working group also announced a goal of raising $2,500 to benefit the Latino Alumni Fund and the Latino Alumni Prize.  The group believed the goal was attainable but could not have anticipated that it would be surpassed almost as quickly as it was announced.  Carlos M. Morales, class of 75, Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel at Merrill Lynch, pledged a $10,000  challenge grant that very evening.  His generous contribution will not only support the Latino Alumni Prize, it will help provide for the immediate, emergency needs for many of our current students.  The Board and I will work with Carlos and all our other donors to make sure these funds are used wisely and effectively.
 
We are extremely appreciative of Carlos' support and have no doubt that his gift will inspire other alumni to make meaningful contributions.  I also anticipate that his challenge will be met. Indeed, we collected almost $1,000 at last weeks event to start that effort. Given what Ive learned in my work with Latino alumni from other regions, Im guessing they will be looking to embellish on the job that Carlos and the other Tri-State area alumni already started.  If you are interested in making a tax-deductible contribution to the Latino Alumni Fund, please see the attached pledge form.