Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Alum Mortara Dead at 51

A member of Georgetown University’s board of directors, ichael Mortara (SFS ’71), died in his Litchfield, Conn., home Sunday at the age of 51. President and chief executive of GS Ventures, a Goldman Sachs-financed business, Mortara’s death was caused by a brain aneurysm, according to an article in the New York TimesA partner at Goldman Sachs, Mortara was instrumental in founding the market for mortgage-backed securities, currently valued at over $2 trillion. Prior to his involvement with GS Ventures, Mortara was co-head of the firm’s fixed income division since 1994.

According to a Goldman-Sachs press release, Mortara was recognized as a financial pioneer when he became a partner at Goldman Sachs in 1987. Joining Salomon Brothers in 1974, Mortara gained a reputation as a financial pathfinder, attaining “legendary status” among bond traders, according to the press release.

“As a member of the Board of Directors and a true son of

Mortara donated $5 million to endow a distinguished chair in diplomacy with his wife, Virginia, earlier this year. The Mortara Dean’s Leadership Fund allows the SFS to provide additional resources and special events while also supporting initiatives such as the Program for Science, Technology and International Affairs and the Center for African Studies. The funding will help the School of Foreign Service add technology and renovate classrooms, seminar rooms and offices.

Mortara also served on the SFS board of visitors and was a founding member of Georgetown’s Wall Street Alliance. He was also a member of the Third Century Campaign steering committee.

Georgetown, Mike Mortara will be greatly missed,” University President Leo J. O’Donovan, S.J., said. “Mike’s distinguished service to our university was invaluable. His loving wife, Gina, and two wonderful boys are in my thoughts and prayers.”

Mortara is survived by his wife and two sons, Michael (SFS ’04) and Matt.

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