$50 million gift to school from Thomas J. Kubr will boost student access

Thomas J. Kubr, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Capital Dynamics and a distinguished alumnus of the California Institute of Technology, has pledged $50 million to Caltech as part of the Initiative for Caltech Students.

The landmark gift, announced today, is aimed at supporting students who might not otherwise be able to attend the university, significantly expanding access and opportunity for future generations.

Kubr, who holds both a Master of Science and an engineering degree from Caltech, is recognized as a prominent figure in the global finance industry. He has led Capital Dynamics, a major private asset management firm, as chairman since 2009.

The pledge is part of a broader fundraising campaign that has raised over $255 million to enhance the student experience at Caltech.

These funds will support scholarships, fellowships, and essential resources designed to ensure students thrive both academically and personally.

Kubr’s $50 million gift stands out as one of the largest individual alumni contributions in the campaign, underscoring his commitment to educational access and excellence.

Caltech officials praised Kubr’s generosity, noting that the donation will have a transformative impact on the university’s ability to attract and support talented students from all backgrounds.

Thomas served as founding Chief Executive Officer of Capital Dynamics for over 12 years before taking up his current role as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

He leads the firm’s client development activities and overall strategic development. Thomas was instrumental in Capital Dynamics’ growth from a small, Swiss-based private equity firm into a global private asset manager with an integrated investment platform.

In 2011, his accomplishments were recognized by Private Equity International, when he was named one of the “100 Most Influential of the Decade”.

Before Capital Dynamics was founded in 1999, Thomas was the head of private equity at Partners Group and a consultant with McKinsey & Company prior to that. He began his career as an aerospace engineer at the Space Division of OerlikonContraves.

Thomas holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan, a Master’s degree and an Engineer’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the California Institute of Technology, and an MBA from IMD.