Morris Silverman

Who was Morris Silverman?

Morris "Marty" Silverman was an American philanthropist and businessman who donated millions of dollars to causes worldwide, mainly in health and science sectors.

He was born and raised in Troy, New York, where he also opened a gas station which he successfully used to help pay for his college tuition. After attending New York University and Albany Law School he moved to New York City with his wife, Dorothy, to go into business. He joined the U.S. Army and became a Major during World War II, earning two Purple Hearts, a Silver Star, two Bronze Star Medals, four Battle Stars, and a Combat Infantryman Badge.

Most of his money came from selling his company, National Equipment Rental, which he started after returning home from World War II. He sold the company in 1984 after it grew to be the largest privately held leasing company in America. After selling the company he founded the Marty and Dorothy Silverman Foundation.

One of his largest contributions was a $50 million pledge to found the Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research.