With profound sadness and deep gratitude, we dedicate this special newsletter to Michael Osheowitz, Chairman Emeritus, former CEO and President of the Edwin Gould Foundation, and Founder of Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO).  Michael's legacy is extraordinary—his vision and commitment to ensuring that talent, regardless of background, had access to opportunity reshaped countless lives and organizations.

With firsthand experience in growing a successful nonprofit, Michael had a unique vantage point as a foundation leader. He coached hundreds of nonprofit leaders, offering invaluable guidance and support.  

Over the course of his remarkable 60-year career, Michael dedicated his life to increasing college graduation rates for low-income students, providing pathways to career success, and advocating for opportunities that would uplift generations of young people.

Read on to celebrate Michael's life of service...



EGF Transforms Under Michael's Leadership

EGF Accelerator Alum

The Opportunity Network's Strategic Planning Session at EGF @ 55 Exchange Place (2012)

In 1989, Michael became President and CEO of the Edwin Gould Foundation for Children (EGF), a position he held until 2007, when he continued to serve as Chairman Emeritus and Trustee. During his tenure at EGF, Michael redefined the relationship between the foundation and partner grantees. He believed in fostering strong, trust-based relationships that included high-quality advising and coaching.  

Under Michael’s leadership, EGF launched a new kind of philanthropy and transformed from a traditional grant maker into a strategic partner and trusted advisor. EGF provided not only funding but also office and convening space, consulting, and much more. During Michael’s tenure, EGF focused on improving life outcomes for children using innovative strategies including experiential education, year-round schools, supplemental education programs to bridge the academic achievement gap, and residential programs for children in foster care, among others. Some of the impactful organizations incubated at EGF, during Michael’s tenure, included Sponsors for Educational Opportunity, Teach For America, New York City Outward Bound, Blue Engine, Clearpool Schools, The Edwin Gould Academy, Crystal Run Environmental Education Center and Hispanics in Philanthropy, to name a few.

Michael’s commitment to collaboration was evident in his daily tradition of hosting lunches for the staff of nonprofits housed at EGF's offices at 23 Gramercy Park South. These lunches offered an opportunity for nonprofit leaders to come together, discuss the issues of the day, share successes, and offer advice. Michael could often be found around the dining table, engaging in deep discussions with nonprofit leaders, problem-solving, and exchanging ideas. Leaders knew that at EGF, they had a supportive and safe space to address their needs and challenges.

Day and night, EGF's townhouse hosted meetings of all types, including receptions, fundraisers, parent meetings, and staff training sessions, reflecting Michael’s commitment to supporting nonprofits in every aspect of their growth and development.

In 2007, Michael passed the baton of leadership at EGF to his trusted long-term partners and colleagues, Mark Bieler and Cynthia Rivera Weissblum, who took on the roles of Chair of the Board and President and CEO, respectively. Over the next 18 years, Michael, Cynthia, and Mark continued to work together to incubate innovative ideas and solutions. EGF continues to work closely with leaders and organizations, not only provide financial support, but also mentorship, strategic advice, and a nurturing environment for nonprofit leaders to thrive. 

Six Decades of Pioneering Leadership at SEO

SEO Student's Visit Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1986)

Michael's commitment to social justice was ignited when a high school teacher introduced him to the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, and from that moment forward, Michael’s life was dedicated to dismantling barriers and creating opportunities for low-income students.

At Middlebury College, Michael's friendship with two scholarship students who received full financial support from philanthropist E. Carroll Stollenwerk solidified his mission. Witnessing the difference that targeted support could make in a young person's success, Michael became resolute in creating transformative opportunities for others.

In 1963, at 26 years old, Michael founded SEO, one of the most respected college advising and career success organizations in the country. His commitment to social justice transformed the lives of thousands of young people, breaking the bonds on poverty and social stagnation and ensuring their success for generations to come.

Under Michael’s leadership, SEO transformed from a small volunteer-based program into one of the most respected college advising and career success organizations in the country. Michael believed in the power of consistent, long-term mentorship, guiding students from high school all the way through college graduation and beyond. Over the past 24 years, Michael worked closely with William Goodloe, Chief Executive Officer of SEO, as the organization expanded its mission—supporting thousands of students who graduated from top colleges and launched impactful careers in industries such as finance, law, and technology.

Michael’s vision and leadership extended internationally as well. In 2005, SEO’s alumni network helped expand the organization to global cities, including London, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Accra. Michael played a pivotal role in shaping SEO’s international efforts, emphasizing the importance of diverse talent in global firms and industries.

SEO Alumni at SEO Book Launch

The Opportunity Makers: The First Half Century of Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (2017)

An Enduring Legacy

Finding EGF's Next Home

Michael Osheowitz, Nana Tam, Cindy Rivera Weissblum, and AIK Renovations

at 61 Gramercy Park North (2024)

Michael's passion for architecture and design has left an indelible mark on the creation of EGF's new space at 61 Gramercy Park North. His unwavering commitment to providing nurturing spaces for leaders to thrive and collaborate will resonate for years to come.

In tribute to Michael’s lifelong commitment to education and social justice, the Edwin Gould Foundation is honored to announce the groundbreaking of the Michael Osheowitz Center for Leadership and Equity at 61 Gramercy Park North. This new center will serve as a dynamic home for nonprofit leaders and advance Michael’s mission of equity and opportunity for all.



Michael is survived by his loving wife of nearly 60 years Maria, his daughters Melita Osheowitz and Tania Gold, son-in-law Dr. Steven Gold, and grandchildren Jonah, Eli and Aden.

Michael’s passing has left a cavernous void that will continue to be profoundly felt by his family, friends, colleagues, and the thousands of individuals whose lives were forever changed by his vision and mentorship. His humility, wisdom, and integrity will always be remembered. His impact will live on through the continued success of SEO’s alumni and all who carry forward his legacy of developing talent, creating opportunities, and ensuring success for generations to come.