Current, Former Board Leaders Named Outstanding New Jersey Philanthropists

Caldwell, NJ – April 1, 2014 – Caldwell University’s current Board of Trustees Chair Marilyn Bastardi and former Board Chair Anthony Bastardi have been named Outstanding Philanthropists by the New Jersey Chapter of the Association of Fund Raising Professionals (AFP-NJ). The husband and wife honorees will be recognized at the AFP-NJ’s Annual Excellence in Philanthropy Awards luncheon on Friday, May 16, 2014. 

Mr. Bastardi is chairman of the board of trustees and chief executive officer of Strategic Development Group and its affiliate Construction Technology Corporation in Fairfield. Mrs. Bastardi, an alumna of Caldwell University, is director of administrative and marketing services for the companies. 

In nominating the Bastardis for the honor, Caldwell University President Nancy Blattner, Ph.D. noted the long history the Bastardis have in serving Caldwell University as benefactors, leaders and fundraisers. “Together, the Bastardis have served the college in 12 leadership positions.” This year, Caldwell University will become Caldwell University, “a transformative milestone made possible by the consistent and generous support of Anthony and Marilyn Bastardi,” said Dr. Blattner. She credited Mrs. Bastardi’s “impressive visionary leadership” in making university status a reality. Dr. Blattner said that Mr. Bastardi, who preceded his wife as chair of the Caldwell board, gave generously to the college “setting an example that inspired others to do the same”.     

In endorsing the nomination, John B. Wilson, president of the Independent College Fund of New Jersey, said the Bastardis are “loyal and generous with their time, talent and treasure with respect to independent higher education in New Jersey, as well as other worthy causes both social and artistic.” He said they are “excellent examples of people who make a difference and change lives for many in New Jersey.”

Among the other organizations the Bastardis have served in New Jersey are: NJTV, Christ the King Preparatory School, the Morris Museum and Birth Haven.

For information on tickets for the 33rd Annual Excellence in Philanthropy Awards luncheon call 732-279-4258 or go to www.afp-nj.org. Proceeds from the luncheon support AFP-NJ’s education and advocacy programs to advance philanthropy.

Since 1981, this AFP-NJ has held its annual recognition event offering the opportunity to acknowledge the individuals and organizations who are advancing philanthropy in New Jersey.