Co-founding a regional advisory board. Co-hosting a New York City gala celebrating McGill’s Third Century. Overseeing the assets of a non-profit organization. These are just some of the volunteer roles Harold J. Trischman, BSc’83, has undertaken as a McGill alumnus.
“There were a few of us in the New York Tri-State area saying, ‘How is there not some type of regional group for McGill?’,” says Trischman. “There’s a lot of alums here, and it’s become very active.”
In addition to being a founding member of the U.S. East Coast Advisory Board, he is also a director of the non-profit The Friends of McGill University, Inc., a member of the New York Finance Group and the U.S. Parents Leadership Council, as well as a Planned Giving Ambassador.
Once you have a second generation, you get to the point where the university has made an impact on your greater family.”
“McGill’s boards are comprised of extremely high-calibre people. Everybody’s smart, but people are also willing to put in the work. It’s become increasingly rewarding.”
Originally from Connecticut, Trischman majored in biochemistry, played rugby, and took up French at McGill. He now works in finance, and was recently named one of America’s Top Wealth Advisors by Forbes.
“Biochemistry was a heavy workload,” he admits. “But I think McGill’s rigorous academic approach prepared me very well for what I do.”
He enjoyed his time at McGill, but his breakthrough as an active alumnus came when his son John, BA’15, attended. “Once you have a second generation, you get to the point where the university has made an impact on your greater family. That’s when I really became engaged.”
That includes McGill’s fundraising efforts: Trischman is “a very big believer in philanthropy. I’ve supported the rugby team, the Made by McGill campaign, and I’m also leaving a legacy gift.”
A legacy gift – such as a bequest in a will – has its advantages. “In the U.S., we have estate taxes. But all taxpayers can make unlimited charitable gifts upon their passing, which bypasses any taxation. Those gifts can make a very large impact on the receiving organization, and it doesn’t affect you in your lifetime.”
To those who wish to learn more about McGill’s alumni engagement opportunities, Trischman simply says, “Look into it. If more alumni get involved, the University could go on for another 100 years. That seems like a good investment.”