USC Kaufman Board of Councilors members Hank Alpert and Orsi Bakos

The prominent donors and entrepreneurs bring a passion for dance and a wealth of expertise to their new roles.

The USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance is thrilled to welcome two new members to its Board of Councilors: Hank Alpert and Orsi Bakos. Both bring a deep passion for the arts and an impressive track record of philanthropy that spans the globe.

“We’re so fortunate to have Hank and Orsi join our board,” said USC Kaufman Dean Julia M. Ritter. “Their commitment to making a difference in the arts and in their communities aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of the school. I’m excited for all they’ll bring to Kaufman and our students.”

About Hank Alpert

A proud New Yorker, Hank Alpert is the president of Spartan Petroleum Corp., a commercial real estate and gasoline distribution company in the New York Metropolitan Area. He also serves on the boards of Griffon Corp. (NYSE) and the Boyar Value Fund. Along with his wife, Gerry, Hank has been a generous supporter of Project Angel Food in Los Angeles, which provides medically tailored meals to those facing serious illness.

Dance is close to the Alpert’s hearts. They’re longtime supporters of the Jacob’s Pillow International Dance Festival, the country’s oldest continuous dance festival, where Hank serves on the Board of Trustees. They also back Dancers Responding to AIDS, the Hudson Valley Dance Festival, and numerous artists and companies, including Dorrance Dance, Elizabeth Streb, and Philadanco.

“I’m excited to join USC Kaufman’s Board of Councilors,” said Alpert. “This is an important time to be involved in the arts, especially for young artists who are on the verge of making a difference in the world. I have seen the dancers at Kaufman up close, most recently at Jacob’s Pillow. It was clear then as it is now that they are the future leaders of the field. I’m proud to play a small part in their journey.”

About Orsi Bakos

Orsi Bakos was born in Szeged, Hungary, and now splits her time between Budapest and Los Angeles. Her love of dance began at age nine with Hungarian folk dancing, something she pursued for a decade. She’s also the proud mom of two USC students.

Bakos has worn many hats — from working in family business operations and marketing to running a boutique hotel and restaurant. Since 2012, she and her husband, Janos, have focused on philanthropic efforts, particularly in support of young artists and creative organizations.

Her interests are as wide-ranging as her generosity. She is an avid practitioner of Iyengar Yoga  and has an affinity for art, architecture, and gastronomy. Bakos is actively involved in the arts world, serving on the Photo Acquisition Group at London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, supporting the Delfina Foundation, and sitting on the board of Bátor Tábor, a SeriousFun Children’s Network Camp.

“USC has been and continues to be a special place for me and my family,” added Bakos. “To contribute meaningfully to an institution we hold dear is a privilege. Even more so when it has to do with dance, a passion of mine since I was young. I look forward to working with my fellow board members to elevate USC Kaufman’s standing and sharing many beautiful moments and memories with its students.” 

About the Board of Councilors

The USC Board of Councilors is an advisory board of prominent individuals in dance, academic, university, corporate and philanthropic arenas who demonstrate a personal commitment to the school and support the mission and vision of USC Kaufman. Members of the Board serve as ambassadors for the school in the community and among peers, advocates who encourage others to become involved and help move the mission of the school forward, and supporters who contribute to the advancement and fiscal well-being of the school.Learn more at kaufman.usc.edu