Elliot Katzman, a Chelsea High School alumnus and accomplished scholar-athlete, took on the role of moderator for Salem State University’s Agganis Forum on Monday evening, held at the university’s Recital Hall.
The forum featured entrepreneur and philanthropist Bill Cummings, whom Katzman interviewed about his remarkable career. As founder of Cummings Properties, Inc., Cummings has been instrumental in acquiring, constructing, and overseeing more than 10 million square feet of commercial real estate throughout eastern Massachusetts.
Together with his wife Joy, Cummings established New Horizons, a not-for-profit organization providing assisted and independent living communities, as well as the Cummings Foundation. Since its creation in 1986, the foundation has given away more than $200 million to charitable causes.
Following his well-received moderation, which earned applause from attendees, Katzman responded modestly when asked about his performance, stating
“It was an
honor to moderate the discussion with Bill Cummings. He is not only an
incredibly successful entrepreneur, but an amazing individual who is making a
big impact in the world.”
Katzman’s own professional trajectory reflects considerable achievement. As a Salem State alumnus and trustee, he serves as general partner at Commonwealth Capital Ventures, a Woburn-based private venture capital firm specializing in early and growth stage technology companies. Before joining Commonwealth Capital Ventures in 2007, he held the position of general partner at Kodiak Venture Partners from 2002 to 2006.
Katzman and his wife Donna (Frangiamone) Katzman met as classmates at Chelsea High School. The couple currently lives in Marblehead.