Faces of Impact
Edward M. Ackerman


“[Ed’s] favorite question to us, posed at every milestone the center achieved, was ‘What do we do next?’ Today, the center is and always will be a powerful testimony to his generosity and wisdom.”

— Dr. Nils Roemer, Stan and Barbara Rabin Professor of Holocaust Studies, Director of the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies, Interim Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities

A champion for the cause of remembrance, empowering generations through his vision and generosity.

Edward M. Ackerman and his wife, Wilhelmina, made the lead gift in 2006 that spurred the creation of the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies at UT Dallas.

The only institute of its kind in Texas, the Ackerman Center makes a unique contribution to vital conversations about humanity’s shared history through its mission of “teaching the past, changing the future.”

The couple had a longstanding tradition of support for the center through the Edward and Wilhelmina Ackerman Foundation. They helped establish several endowments at UT Dallas, including the Ackerman Center Holocaust Studies Endowment, the Research on Holocaust Studies from the Perspectives of the American Experience Endowment, and the Stan and Barbara Rabin Professorship in Holocaust Studies.

Edward was recognized for his contributions to the University with the Gifford K. Johnson Community Leadership Award in 2016.

The Edward M. Ackerman Leadership Award is named in his memory. This award is presented by the Ackerman Center to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to promoting the education and increased awareness of the Holocaust and related human rights issues.

Edward was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He served as general partner and portfolio manager of Ackerman Associates LP, the first hedge fund in Dallas, before founding Ackerman Capital Management LP.