Robert Spidell
Founder, Spidell Publishing/Donor
California State University, Long Beach
A successful publisher and active alumnus of California State University, Long Beach, Robert Spidell is a shining example of the California State University graduate—a pioneer in his profession who gives back to his alma mater in ways that contribute to the success of today’s students.
Mr. Spidell earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Cal State Long Beach in 1965 and soon founded Spidell Publishing, a producer of tax publications for professionals. The Spidell name has been synonymous with great service and credibility in the dissemination of tax information, providing California and federal tax professionals with the annual information they need. Mr. Spidell is also recognized for the quality of the tax seminars he has presented throughout California, the proceeds of which he traditionally donates to a different cause each year.
At Cal State Long Beach, Mr. Spidell has been a member of the Board of Directors of the CSULB Alumni Association since 1989 and served as its president for two years. His support of the university has touched numerous campus programs, including choral and opera studies, engineering, and the College of Liberal Arts. His involvement has earned him several campus awards, including the President’s Distinguished Service Award in 1997 and the Distinguished Alumnus for the College of Liberal Arts in 2003.
In 1991, Mr. Spidell and his wife, Janet, established the Spidell Technology Endowment to support new learning technologies for the University Library. This led to the creation of the Spidell Electronic Classroom in 2000, a unique “hands-on” facility that featured many “firsts.” And, in 2007, the library opened and dedicated the Spidell Technology Center, the university’s largest computing facility, with 235 computers, 40 additional workstations and the latest software, enabling students to conduct individual and group coursework and research.
In recognition of his professional accomplishments and continuous support of the university and its students, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Long Beach proudly confer upon Robert Spidell the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.