Passing of devoted University benefactor Sam Bergami Jr. ’85 EMBA, ’02 Hon.

President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D. shared the sad news that one of the University’s most devoted benefactors passed away late last week.

March 13, 2025

Dear Members of the University Community,

I am writing to share the sad news that Samuel S. Bergami Jr ’85 EMBA, one of the University’s most devoted benefactors, passed away late last week. Sam was a longtime member of the University’s Board of Governors, serving as chair from 2006 to 2012. He and his beloved wife, Lois, have supported the University for decades, making an impact on the lives of generations of students.

One of the most visible testaments of the Bergamis' generosity is the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation. The Bergamis were significant donors to the construction of the Beckerman Recreation Center and the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science, and they funded renovations for a number of significant campus facilities.

The Bergamis also created endowed scholarships and supported many academic and co-curricular initiatives, including the Bergami Family Summer Internship program. In addition, Bergami Hall, the Bergami Cybersecurity Center, and the University's campus in Orange bear the Bergami family name. They have also supported the Chargers Marching Band and the University's award-winning student-run radio station, which is located in the Lois Evalyn Bergami Broadcast Media Center. Sam was presented the University’s President’s Award in 2012.

In a 2019 issue of the Alumni Magazine, Sam said, “It has been an enriching experience for us to support an institution that does so much for its students who, in turn, work so diligently to pursue their passions and grow into their full potential. That’s why we give back as much as we do. We want to give the next generation the same opportunity to achieve their own dreams and change the world.” His magnanimous nature is one we all should strive to emulate.

The very definition of a self-made individual, Sam worked for nearly 60 years at Alinabal, Inc., moving up the ranks from a tool and die apprentice to president, CEO, and co-owner of the company, which under his leadership employed 400 people.

Michael Ambrose ’84 ’19 Hon., chair of the University’s Board of Governors, shared, “Sam was a remarkable individual, and he lived life to the fullest. He took great pride in his association with the University, and he and Lois always looked for ways to support the educational experience of our students. The enduring impact of Sam’s and Lois’ generosity will benefit University of New Haven students for generations to come.”

In addition to Lois, Sam is survived by his three children and seven grandchildren, including Leah Myers ’18, who is vice president of the Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, and a large extended family.

Read Sam’s obituary and see information on calling hours and the funeral service.

Please join me in extending our heartfelt condolences to Lois and the entire Bergami family. Let us honor Sam’s legacy by giving back, making an impact, and creating a brighter future for all.

All my best,

Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D.
President