Georgetown University has announced a $3 million gift from the family of alumnus Henry J. Blommer (C'26) in support of the McDonough School of Business.

The gift will establish the Henry J. Blommer Family Endowed Chair in Sustainable Business in honor of Blommer, who prioritized sustainable business practices during his years at the helm of Blommer Chocolate, the company he established in 1939 with his brothers Bernard (C'30) and Al (C'31) Blommer. The commitment is the first significant investment in the leadership of the Business of Sustainability Initiative at Georgetown McDonough.

Blommer, who passed away in 1992, is a former member of the board of directors as well as a recipient of both the John Carroll Award and the John Carroll Medal of Merit.

"Henry and four generations of the Blommer family have had a tremendous impact on our Georgetown community," said Georgetown University president John J. DeGioia. "I am deeply grateful for their commitment to service and for their steadfast engagement and support. The Henry J. Blommer Family Endowed Chair in Sustainable Business at our McDonough School will strengthen the ways in which our university can better address the challenges that face our global community and as we seek to care for our common home."

"Our grandfather's decision to attend Georgetown had a domino effect on our family," said Steve Blommer. "His passion for the university was evident throughout his life, so it is particularly meaningful to our family that this chair in honor of Henry and his family to further sustainability in business is located at his alma mater, which he loved so much."

(Photo credit: Georgetown University)