HWS News
26 May 2020 • Alums • Faculty Karofsky '89 Supports Study Abroad with Gift to McGuire Fund
Robert Karofsky '89 was already an economics major when he had his first class with former Interim President and Professor Emeritus of Economics Patrick A. McGuire L.H.D. '12. "Taking that class accelerated my learning and excitement for the discipline," says Karofsky, who today serves as Co-President of the Investment Bank at UBS and a member of the UBS Group Executive Board. "He's the most extraordinary professor I have had. I believe I owe a lot to him."
As a gesture of thanks for the profound impact McGuire had on his education, Karofsky recently made a substantial donation to the Patrick A. and Sandra A. McGuire Study Abroad Fund. Created by the Board of Trustees in 2019 to honor the McGuires' years of service to the Colleges, the fund makes studying abroad a reality for students who otherwise could not afford it.
"Hobart gave me confidence to continue in the finance industry," says Karofsky. "Pat McGuire was a big part of that maturation process. When I look back on my career, he's one of the most significant influences. His engagement and passion helped me mature as a student and as a person."
Karofsky completed Honors in economics with McGuire serving as his adviser and was a member of Sigma Chi and the Hobart football team. He went on to earn an MBA from the University of Chicago. As an alumnus, he serves on the President's Leadership Council.
Contributing to the study abroad fund allows Karofsky to both give back to the Colleges and thank McGuire for his influence. "My hope is to provide students with opportunities to explore, to develop academically and to really become passionate about something and for that to fuel the rest of their academic and professional career," he says. "That's how I felt after first meeting Professor McGuire and taking his class. That type of passion that fueled the rest of my life."
To honor a faculty mentor through a donation to the Colleges, contact Senior Executive Director of Development Steve Caraher at caraher@hws.edu or 315-781-3776.
The photo above shows Interim President and Professor Emeritus of Economics Patrick A. McGuire L.H.D. 12 teaching in the classroom.
