During their time at Case Western Reserve University—nearly 15 years, combined—Michael and Betsy Cherkasky never studied science or engineering. Yet when the couple sought to give back to their alma mater, they were confident where their gift would have the greatest impact: the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISEB).
The Cherkaskys have committed $1 million to support the Case Quad building, slated to open during Case Western Reserve’s bicentennial in 2026. The 189,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art research hub will offer a variety of labs and collaborative workspaces for students and researchers from the College of Arts and Sciences, Case School of Engineering and School of Medicine, among others.
“We care about education,” said Michael Cherkasky (ADL ’72, LAW ’75), who is an emeritus trustee of the university. “It enormously strengthens our country. Education has the ability to help people become the best of who they can be and achieve their dreams.”
The Cherkaskys’ support adds to more than $100 million in commitments made toward the $300 million research facility. Half of the project’s overall expense is covered through century bonds, with the balance funded through philanthropy.
“We appreciate the Cherkaskys’ generous support for the ISEB and their deep appreciation for the transformative power of education,” said CWRU President Eric W. Kaler. “As alumni, the Cherkaskys understand first-hand what it means to be a student at Case Western Reserve University. We are honored that they have chosen to ensure that the next generation of students have the same enriching experience.”
Michael and Betsy met in high school in New York City but say their life together really started at Case Western Reserve, where Michael majored in history and political science before law school, while Betsy studied Russian and, as a graduate student, comparative literature. They reflect fondly on their years on campus for the broad, holistic education they received and the faculty members whose guidance helped shape them as young adults.
“I had so many teachers who inspired and challenged me,” Michael Cherkasky said. “Some of the things I learned there, I’ve used for the rest of my life.”
Betsy Cherkasky began to pursue her PhD and taught first-year English before deciding to raise their four children full time. Today, the couple has 10 grandchildren and their family, Michael Cherkasky said, is the foundation of their life together.
Cherkasky’s career took him from high-profile trials in the New York County district attorney’s office to compliance and monitorship in both the public and private sectors. In 2013, he co-founded the global risk management company Exiger, and sold it 10 years later for more than $1 billion. Employees held substantial ownership of the company, leading everyone from receptionists to accountants to become millionaires overnight. The sale also enabled the Cherkaskys to expand their philanthropy.
“We give because we’re tremendously grateful, and we trust Case Western Reserve to put the money where it’s most needed,” said Betsy Cherkasky (WRC ’73; GRS ’76, comparative literature). “The university can make a difference in the world—just as it does for individual students and just as it did for us.”