The Passing of William E. Macaulay

We are deeply saddened to share the news that William E. Macaulay, Chair of the Macaulay Honors College Foundation Board of Trustees, passed away on November 26.

“The City University of New York mourns the loss of William E. Macaulay, a business leader and philanthropist whose exceptional generosity enabled the University to help its honor students achieve their full potential,” said CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. “CUNY’s Honors College was named after him in 2006, following his extraordinary donation of $30 million, one of the largest gifts in the University’s history.”

As a graduate of City College, Bill inspired students with the unlimited possibilities that a CUNY degree can set in motion.

“Bill’s remarkable leadership and generosity ensured the best possible education for our students,” added Macaulay Dean Mary C. Pearl. “His dedication to Macaulay Honors College and his wise guidance will be deeply missed.”

“I will miss having Bill standing next to me at the Macaulay Honors commencement, proudly shaking the hand of every graduate.”
—Chancellor Matos Rodríguez

As the founding chairman of our Foundation Board, he transformed honors education by launching Macaulay’s endowment and securing a permanent home for the College.

Added Foundation Vice Chair and Treasurer Anthony Meyer, “The entire Macaulay community mourns Bill’s untimely passing. He was our patron, our inspiration and an example to us all. And, speaking personally, he was my friend and mentor.”

Read the obituary in The New York Times.