Weston Donor Challenge Motivates Bloomfield College Community

By Alicia Cook

Long-time friend of Bloomfield College, Josh Weston, “challenged” the College. The terms of the Challenge were straight and to the point. Weston, the former CEO and Chairman of ADP, who did not attend Bloomfield College himself, would pledge $100,000 over two years, as long as the College secured two entirely new donor pledges, each of that same amount in six months’ time.

Just three weeks after Weston’s proposal, Bloomfield College secured two new donors, Bill Colgan and a generous family who chooses to remain anonymous, and won the Challenge.

Not only that, in addition to meeting the Challenge with new donors, many trustees each pledged at least that amount as a result of their connection with, or appreciation of, Josh Weston. These trustees included William H. Turner, III and his wife Judith, Sandy and Gretchen Prater, Adrian Shelby and Ed Bindel, Jim and Edda Gillen, Rosemary and Al Iversen, Martin and Toni McKerrow, Glenn and Lyn Reiter, and John Delucca.

"This is a College that ‘walks the walk.’  Its mission is of the highest order to those who believe they have a responsibility to shape a more inclusive and just future for our country,” said Bloomfield College President Richard A. Levao. “It is a chance to make a real difference and I salute all those who are coming forward to join our family of donors and friends."

This wonderful domino effect in giving was all thanks to Montclair residents Josh Weston and his wife, Judy. The lifelong philanthropists, who founded the Josh and Judy Weston Family Foundation, believe people are the single most important asset of any company, and they are right.

Donor participation is one of the most important measures of the strength of an institution like Bloomfield College, and his selfless donor challenge resulted in an influx of giving. Josh Weston is one of Bloomfield College’s shining stars and undoubtedly one of New Jersey's most actively involved citizens.

“We are so grateful to the wonderful Josh Weston, who spurred additional gifts that have directly impacted our students through scholarship support," said Jackie Bartley, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “I’d like to thank all of the College’s friends, both new and old, for their generosity. These types of moments are so motivating and it is always great when the community comes together.”

The 2016-2017 fiscal year kicked off June 1 and the College needs your support to make the dream of earning a Bloomfield College degree a reality for students. You can make your gift anytime online.

If you have any questions about this Challenge, or want to find out how to set up your own donor challenge, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 973-748-9000 x1293.