<p>ncmentor is correct when he states: “The University has there priorities straight, and there #1 priory is educating great students…” However, like the OP, he cites an outdated opinion piece about the Rose based on outdated facts. </p>
<p>The mishandled, original Rose proposal, whether misconstrued or wrongheaded, is no more. Brandeis is not eliminating its museum. The univeristy’s interest in reserving the ability to monetize one or two paintings on occassion is not abandonment of its collection. In fact, the intent is to create a better student experience connected to art. Thankfully, the endowment has materially rebounded along with the market. As for the Madoff connection, again, the opinion pieces overstate. Brandeis itself had no money invested with Madoff and lost not a single penny with him, unlike Tufts (20 million) and some other institutions that did find their investments wiped out. </p>
<p>As for the Shapiro Foundation as a benefactor of Brandeis, the university’s fundraising efforts are far broader than that single organization and its strategy has adjusted to the fallout from the Madoff scandal as it affects that foundation and other supporters–grateful as it is for the magnificent new $200 million Science Center and the wonderful student center from a few years ago. </p>
<p>Again, the university is maintaining its student focus which has helped make it a great school–e.g. a focus on student-aid fundraising and funding innovative educational programs. Happily, other donors have stepped forward to fund those programs as well as more fancy buildings (e.g. the soon-to-be completed Mandel center for the humanities).</p>