Michele J. Barrett Executive Communications Officer | Stony Brook University
Michele J. Barrett Executive Communications Officer | Stony Brook University
David Arpi, a graduate of Stony Brook University, has established an endowed scholarship fund in memory of his late wife, Natalie Gubb. Both were alumni of the university's urban policy and sciences program. The couple shared a life filled with travel and professional achievements. David worked for the Federal Power Commission before founding MACH Energy, a company specializing in cloud-based energy management software. Natalie pursued a legal career and became known for her work as an affordable housing attorney in California.
Arpi created the scholarship to support Stony Brook University's Educational Opportunity Program (EOP/AIM), reflecting what he believes would have been Natalie's wishes. This program provides educational access and financial aid to promising students who might not otherwise gain college admission.
"Natalie dedicated her career to helping thousands of people across California live in homes they can afford and mentoring young developers," said Arpi. "My hope is that this fund will continue her life’s work to help students from lower-income backgrounds get the great education that both Natalie and I got at Stony Brook."
The scholarship aims to assist EOP/AIM students with expenses beyond tuition, such as room and board, books, or travel costs. The initiative was inspired by New York State's endowment match program and the Simons Infinity Investment Match Challenge in 2023.
Pamela Matzner, director of EOP/AIM, expressed gratitude for Arpi's contribution: "We are grateful for David Arpi’s confidence in the EOP/AIM. Establishing this endowed scholarship fund in his wife’s honor is an investment into the future of our students, helping to ensure they graduate."