OVERVIEW: David Kaplan and his wife Meredith conduct their philanthropy through the David and Meredith Kaplan Foundation. The couple strongly supports their mutual alma mater, University of Michigan, the recent recipient of a $7.5 million gift from the Kaplans. Much of the family's other giving takes places in Los Angeles.
BACKGROUND: David B. Kaplan graduated with a BBA from University of Michigan and joined the investment banking department at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette. From 1991 through 2000, he was a senior partner of Apollo Management and went on to cofound Ares Management.
EDUCATION & YOUTH: The Kaplans recently gave a $7.5 million gift to University of Michigan, establishing the David and Meredith Kaplan Men's Basketball Endowed Scholarship Fund. Kaplan was a senior during the Wolverine team's 1989 championship run. The couple have also supported their alma mater in other ways, helping to foster the creation of the Michigan Israel Partnership for Research, funding scholarships at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, and supporting initiatives in the Office of Student Life.
Much of the Kaplans' giving takes place in Los Angeles, where they have supported Campbell Hall School, LA's Promise, Center for Early Education (Kaplan is a trustee), Marlborough School, and UCLA Foundation.
HEALTH: Kaplan serves on the board of directors of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and the couple also supports other institutions such as Children's Hospital of Los Angeles.
JEWISH CAUSES: Grantees include American Israel Education Foundation, Wilshire Boulevard Temple, Birthright Israel Foundation, Youth Renewal Fund, and United Jewish Federation.
LOOKING FORWARD: In his late 40s, Kaplan is still very much engaged in business but should be watched for increased giving down the line.