UB’s Division Of Athletics Receives A Gift In Memory Of Alumnus, Devoted Sports Fan

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Mindy Wasserman and her children, Jeffrey and Betsy Heymann, David and Lisa Heymann and Andrew Heymann, decided to make it a family affair when establishing a scholarship fund for the UB Division of Athletics in honor of their late husband and father, Walter Heymann, an alumnus and former UB football player.

The $65,000 gift will be used for football athletic scholarships, as noted on the plaque outside the newly named Walter Heymann Meeting Room in UB Stadium. UB Bulls offensive backs will use the meeting room to review game film, to learn new plays and to work out position specifics.

"We appreciate the support from Mindy and her children," said Bob Arkeilpane, director of athletics. "It sets a wonderful example for others to follow."

Wasserman noted: "We found ourselves in the position to donate and it's a good feeling. We are delighted that our gift, which helps memorialize my husband, also benefits athletes in an academic environment in Western New York because Walter always believed that education combined with competitive sports builds character in young people."

Wasserman's sons, who were 21, 19, and 12 when their father died in 1983, echoed their mother's sentiments. "My dad was a hard-working guy and we are a close-knit family, which while not wealthy, can at this time afford to make a positive contribution to student athletes, the university and the community-at-large," said Jeffrey Heymann.

David Heymann said that to honor his father, "we wanted to make a donation to an endeavor that my father would have supported if he were still alive." He explained, "My father was a UB alumnus and was always a big fan and supporter of UB. He would certainly have understood that helping UB's growing Division I program would ultimately help the school as well as the community."

Jeffrey Heymann also acknowledged his mother's second husband, Arthur Wasserman -- another significant donor to UB -- with teaching him the value of giving. "It's almost a bit selfish, making a charitable contribution, because it makes you feel good."

Born in Germany, Walter Heymann, his older sister and his parents moved to the U.S. in 1940 when he was eight. He lived in Buffalo until his death in 1983.

Heymann graduated from the university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry in 1962. After a two-year stint in the Army, he worked as a chemist for Allied Chemical, then moved into the import business with Steinberg Fine Foods, Inc. and later Spaulding & Heymann. At the time of his death, he worked for Connecticut General as an insurance agent and estate planner.

Mindy Wasserman and Andrew Heymann live in Amherst. David and Lisa Heymann live in Plainview. Jeffrey and Betsy Heymann live in White Plains.

For information on how you can support the University at Buffalo, go to http://www.buffalo.edu/giving.