Sandra Atlas Bass is a prominent philanthropist who has donated millions of dollars to various causes, especially in the field of education. She is the daughter of the late Charles Atlas, a famous bodybuilder and fitness icon, and the founder of the Sandra Atlas Bass and Edythe & Sol G. Atlas Fund, Inc., a private foundation that supports charitable organizations in New York and beyond.
Early Life and Education
Sandra Atlas Bass was born in 1943 in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in a wealthy family, as her father had amassed a fortune from his mail-order fitness business and his trademarked slogan “Hey Skinny! Your Ribs Are Showing!” She attended the prestigious Brearley School in Manhattan, where she developed an interest in art and music. She later graduated from Sarah Lawrence College with a degree in liberal arts.
Philanthropic Work
Sandra Atlas Bass has been involved in philanthropy for over four decades, following the footsteps of her parents, who were also generous donors to various causes. She established her own foundation in 1984, after inheriting a large portion of her father’s estate. Since then, she has given away more than $100 million to various organizations, focusing on education, health, arts, and social justice.
Some of her notable donations include:
- $40 million to Northwell Health, a health care network in New York, to support research, education, and patient care
- $25 million to Stony Brook University, a public research university in New York, to fund scholarships, faculty recruitment, and academic programs
- $10 million to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a world-renowned art museum in New York, to enhance its collection and exhibitions
- $5 million to the American Civil Liberties Union, a non-profit organization that defends civil rights and liberties, to support its legal and advocacy work
Sandra Atlas Bass has also supported many other organizations, such as the New York Public Library, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the New York Botanical Garden, and the Jewish Museum.
Personal Life and Awards
Sandra Atlas Bass is married to Jerry Bass, a retired lawyer and businessman. They have two children, David and Jennifer, and four grandchildren. They live in a penthouse apartment in Manhattan, overlooking Central Park. They also own a country estate in Millbrook, New York, where they enjoy gardening and horseback riding.
Sandra Atlas Bass has received numerous awards and honors for her philanthropic work, such as:
- The President’s Medal from Stony Brook University, the highest honor bestowed by the university
- The Visionary Award from Northwell Health, for her leadership and generosity in advancing health care
- The Philanthropy Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, for her outstanding contribution to the philanthropic community
- The Ellis Island Medal of Honor, for her exemplary service to the nation and the world
Sandra Atlas Bass is widely admired and respected for her dedication and passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others. She is a role model and an inspiration for many aspiring philanthropists and social activists.