This fund was established by Samuel Mendel Melton in 1984 for the purpose of supporting the Center for Jewish studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Melton was born March 21, 1900, in Austria/Hungary and moved to the U.S. at age 4. He earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Ohio State University in 1923.

Melton was the founder, former president and honorary life chairman of Capitol Manufacturer and Supply Company; an equipment design and manufacturing enterprise. He was also involved in a variety of organizations that advanced the study and understanding of Jewish culture. In 1951, the Samuel M. Melton Foundation was established in Ohio with Melton as president, treasurer and donor.

Melton passed away July 1, 1993.