Samuel M. Feldman
After graduating from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, Sam Feldman became the Chairman, CEO, and President of Webster Menswear in Baltimore, MD, which became a public company in 1986. In addition to running Webster, he was an integral part of the Baltimore philanthropic community. Among Sam's many contributions, he helped to purchase an old synagogue in Baltimore City and was a founder of Beth Am Congregation. His philanthropy continues to support many Jewish, educational, and cultural endeavors in Baltimore and elsewhere.
In 2000, Sam and his family moved to Martha's Vineyard where he spearheaded many philanthropic efforts and is known as a community activist. He founded The Farm Institute, the Farm-Based Education Association, the National Widowers Organization, the Martha's Vineyard Donors Collaborative, and Polly Hill Arboretum. In addition, Sam was an initial founder of the Martha's Vineyard Film Center, the YMCA, The Martha's Vineyard Charter School, and the new Martha's Vineyard Hospital.
Feldman's philanthropic roots were established post-World War II when his father Herman Feldman took the initiative to relieve the plight of Jews; he participated in the purchase of Old Bay Line Steamer named "President Warfield." The ship was re-outfitted and armed in Baltimore, and renamed "The Exodus".
Feldman, with his life companion Marilyn Lyleyerhaff, divides their time between Baltimore, New York, Palm Beach, and Martha's Vineyard. Sam is the proud father of Dene Elizabeth and Leigh Erika and has three wonderful grandchildren.