UB's School of Communications Design Receives New Name in Recognition of Klein Family Endowment
September 10, 2013
Contact: University Relations
Phone: 410.837.5739
In recognition of a major gift from both the Philip and Harriet Klein Foundation and Michael F. Klein, the University of Baltimore introduces the Klein Family School of Communications Design, part of the Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences and home to the University's lauded programs in writing, digital communication, integrated arts and more. The new name reflects the importance of the endowment to the continuing growth and progress of the school, according to University officials.
The foundation, based in Owings Mills, Md., along with Michael F. Klein, have pledged a gift of $1.5 million to the school, endowed income from which will be used to support the school’s academic development. The Klein Family School of Communications Design will continue to serve as UB’s hub for undergraduate and graduate programs in design and communications, including its Bachelor of Arts degrees in English, Digital Communication and Integrated Arts and its graduate programs in Publications Design (a Master of Arts degree), Creative Writing & Publishing Arts and Integrated Design (both Master of Fine Arts degrees), and a master’s-level Certificate in Digital Communication.
"The Klein family’s generosity and progressive spirit will allow our school to introduce writing, graphic design, technology and creativity to the next generation of bright, high-achieving students at UB," said Laura Bryan, dean of the Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences. "Their support support is crucial to our success, and we thank them for recognizing the importance of developing effective communication skills in the 21st century."
The Klein family has a long history with the University of Baltimore: Philip Klein graduated from UB in 1938 with a degree in business administration, while Michael Klein, his son, graduated from UB in 1976 with a degree in English. Michael's daughter, Rachel Klein, also is a UB alumnus; she earned an undergraduate degree in English in 2000.
"We are pleased that the Klein Foundation and Michael Klein have recognized the distinction of our work in communications and design," said UB President Robert Bogomolny. "Their generous support will elevate the Klein School regionally and nationally."
The school offers students a number of opportunities to explore traditional creative forms, such as poetry, fiction, drama and print design alongside emerging media including Web design and development and multimedia production. Its facilities include a Digital Design Studio and Media Lab for design and video and audio production, while its Ampersand Institute for Words & Images offers workshops, guest lectures and other public events.
"UB played a vital role in my grandfather, Philip Klein's, life, and he would be pleased to know that the foundation he created through his life's work will be assisting his alma mater for generations to come," said Daniel Klein, the foundation's trustee. "Additionally, my grandmother, Harriet Klein, was an ardent supporter of education and would be equally enthused at the Foundation's continued devotion to its core mission and values."
The school's faculty members are involved in a variety of creative and professional endeavors, including contributions to scholarly journals and popular media, works of fiction and nonfiction, film, video and website development. Its students and alumni work in major design, publishing and communication agencies and institutions throughout the mid-Atlantic and the Northeast, and in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and overseas.
The University of Baltimore is a member of the University System of Maryland and comprises the School of Law, the Yale Gordon College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Public Affairs and the Merrick School of Business.