In an email to students, President Steven H. Kaplan announced that Botwinik Hall, a freshman and sophomore residence hall at the University of New Haven, would be renamed Gerber Hall. The namesake comes from Murray Gerber, who received an EWMBA from the University in 1979.

“Murray Gerber has made a most gracious commitment as part of the University’s Charger Challenge campaign that will impact generations to come, and he has long been a trusted adviser who has served many years as a dedicated member of the University’s Board of Governors,” Kaplan told the Charger Bulletin. “I am very glad that we can recognize his leadership and longstanding support in this most public way by dedicating Gerber Hall in his honor.”

More than 25 students at the University have been awarded the Gerber Scholarship since its inception in 1996. It was originally instated by Gerber and his late wife, Shirley. Gerber was a member of the Board of Governors from 1987 until 2005 and served as vice chairman for five years. He is an emeritus member of the Board, according to Karen Grava, Director of Media Relations for the University.

Gerber began his career by co-founding Prototype & Plastic Mold Company in 1968 in Middletown, CT, of which he is no longer affiliated.

Gerber has met three U.S. presidents and received an award from President Bush at the White House Rose Garden. He was also named Small Business Advocate by the Small Business Administration twice.

Gerber was presented the Distinguished Alumni Award by the University in 1998, and his son Jim, received an MBA from the University in 1981.

Gerber went for his EWMBA when he was 44-years-old, because “he always believed that you should never stop learning.”

Kaplan will host Gerber at a ceremony officially dedicating Gerber Hall on April 21 at 4:15 p.m. The ceremony is open to all students and faculty.