Remembering Mike Goldstein: Trustee, Leader, and Champion of Fielding Graduate University

Mike Goldstein, JD

It is with profound sadness that we share the news that our esteemed colleague and friend, Fielding Trustee Mike Goldstein, JD, passed away unexpectedly last week.

Mike was a remarkable leader, mentor, and steadfast champion of Fielding Graduate University. His wisdom, guidance, and commitment to higher education—and Fielding’s mission in particular—touched all who had the privilege to know him. Over the course of his long service, Mike helped shape the future of our university with his vision, counsel, and heartfelt belief in our work.

“Mike Goldstein embodied the very best of Fielding—visionary, generous, and deeply committed to social justice. His legacy lives on in the students he supported, the values he championed, and the enduring strength of our university. We will miss his wisdom and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.” —Gary Wagenheim, PhD (HOD’ 05) Chair, Board of Trustees, Fielding Graduate University

“Mike brought a rare combination of heart and intellect to everything he touched. He believed deeply in Fielding’s mission and worked tirelessly to advance it because he believed in the power of learning to change lives. His impact will be felt for generations.” — John Bennett, PhD, President, Fielding Graduate University

Since joining the Board in 1990, Mike served Fielding in numerous leadership roles, including Trustee, Trustee Emeritus, and Board Chair. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, the Board of Trustees established the Michael and Jinny Goldstein Endowed Board Scholarship for Dissertation Research Advancing Social Justice, with many trustees giving generously to honor his leadership and legacy. Mike and Jinny themselves also gave generously to the endowment, reflecting their shared commitment to supporting Fielding scholars dedicated to advancing equity and justice through their research. As a lasting tribute to the impact that Mike had on generations of Fielding faculty and students, he was awarded an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters by the Board of Trustees in 2014.

He also served on the university’s 50th Anniversary Committee, where his leadership and Washington, D.C. connections were instrumental in shaping the vision for the celebration. Thanks to his efforts, Fielding proudly hosted its 50th anniversary event on Capitol Hill — a milestone moment that reflected the university’s impact.

You can access the obituary here: https://www.sagelbloomfield.com/obituary/Michael-Goldstein

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to The Washington Ballet, which is establishing a scholarship fund in Mike’s honor to provide financial support for talented pre-professional ballet students. In addition, you can support Mike’s named scholarship at Fielding by donating online or contacting the Office of Development.

We are profoundly grateful for Mike’s immeasurable contributions and mourn this tremendous loss alongside his family, friends, and the many communities he touched.