M. Keefe Gorman ’84, P’21
Keefe Gorman epitomizes the essence of a true Laurentian. He habitually embraces diligent work and brings powerful energy to help others, especially his SLU family. As a distinguished Vilas Scholar, Keefe earned a B.A. in Economics. He was social chairman of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, DJ on KSLU Radio, a SLU orientation leader and ski raced all four years. His experiences extended beyond campus borders to Madrid, Spain, where he broadened his horizons through immersive study abroad.
Keefe's passion for skiing propelled him to represent St. Lawrence in the NCAA Skiing championships, leaving an indelible mark on the Saints Alpine Ski Team. Post-graduation, Keefe's dedication to the ski community continued. He has spent decades as a professional competitor on the World Pro Ski Racing Tour and the World Pro Mogul Tour. Keefe coached the Cornell University Ski Team, Central New York junior ski racers, and the Skaneateles High School Ski Team.
Keefe began his 37-year financial career at Merrill Lynch culminating in the esteemed position of managing director until his retirement last year. As a member of the Merrill Lynch Circle of Champions, Keefe belonged to the exclusive group of top advisers among approximately 16,000 brokers in the company. He earned recognition from several institutions for his excellence in financial services and has been named one of America’s Top Financial Planners by the Consumer’s Research Council of America. Keefe ranked as one of America’s Top 100 Brokers on multiple occasions by Barron’s, a weekly publication printed by Dow Jones & Company.
In addition to his impressive career, Keefe has served over 30 years for Rotary International, currently serves as an Ambassador for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA), belongs to the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA), and served as board director of Foodnet Meals on Wheels.
Throughout his endeavors, Keefe has remained an advocate for St. Lawrence, embodying the spirit of giving back. He has remained engaged as a career volunteer, spreading Laurentian impact through his mentorship and deep connections. Keefe and his wife Susan served on the Parents Committee and frequently opened their home to fellow Laurentian families for local admissions events while their daughter Makena ’21 attended SLU. As an alumni Vilas Scholar, Keefe has hosted the annual Vilas Scholar trip in New York City since graduating, and he established an endowment to ensure the trip will exist well into the future. Keefe initiated the on-campus building project that led to the creation of the Saddlemire Ski Suite, enriching the experiences of future generations of student-athletes.
In 2014, Keefe and Susan founded Nest 58, a boutique retail store located in Skaneateles. Together they enjoy worldwide buying trips to bring unique items to Central New York.
Beyond his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Keefe cherishes his role as a family man. Alongside his wife Susan of 34 years, they raised their four children in Skaneateles, NY.