Dear UHart Community,
It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Board of Regents Chair Emeritus Arnold C. Greenberg (Hon. '89). Arnold was a force among our Board and community over a span of more than 50 years. He served in various capacities of the Board from 1970 to the present day, and as chair from 1998-2003. He received an Honorary Degree in 1989 and was awarded the University’s prestigious Medal for Distinguished Service in 2004.
Arnold was an accomplished professional and an extraordinary philanthropist. He was a gifted leader, speaker, and businessperson. A Harvard graduate, Arnold became the CEO of Coleco, his family’s business, after a career in law. He led the company through a series of business ventures including early video and arcade gaming, home computing, and perhaps most notably, the 1980’s classic Cabbage Patch Kids.
Throughout his life, he was passionate about giving back. In honor of his father, he founded the Maurice Greenberg Center for Judaic Studies at the University in 1983. He was exceptionally proud of not only the scholarly work of the Center, but of the stimulating and educational community programming provided to diverse audiences at all ages and stages of life. For decades, he has been active and deeply engaged in many aspects of the University’s growth and evolution. We are better – and our institution is stronger – for his care and contributions.
My sincere condolences to all across our campus community that were fortunate enough to share close relationships with Arnold. At an appropriate time, we will honor his legacy at UHart together. The Greenberg Family will host services at Beth El Temple in West Hartford on Friday, March 21, at 11 a.m.
In sympathy…lpw
Lawrence P. Ward, EdD
President