Herb in memoriam and Ellen Moelis
Herb Moelis was a distinguished graduate of the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and held a law degree from New York University, followed by an LLM specializing in Tax Law. He was also a Certified Public Accountant. Herb's professional and philanthropic impact spans decades and disciplines. He served over six years on the University of Pennsylvania Library Board of Overseers and continued his service for another ten years on the Board of Overseers for the School of Veterinary Medicine, specifically the New Bolton Center.
An active leader in the equine world, Herb served on the Board of Directors at Delaware Park Racetrack and was the long-standing President of the Board of Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) for over twenty years. He also founded and chaired the Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF), advancing equine health and veterinary education. For his continued support and dedication to education, Herb was honored with the Alumni Award of Merit by the University of Pennsylvania. In addition to his service, he and his wife, Ellen sponsor Penn scholarships in perpetuity, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students.
Ellen Moelis, a native of Queens, New York, developed a passion for business early in life. As a teenager, she worked alongside her father, a homebuilder, gaining hands-on experience in operations and finance. Her early ambition led her to a secretarial role at a small real estate management firm, which she would later purchase in 1969. Under her visionary leadership, the company grew into one of the largest real estate management firms in the New York metropolitan area, managing over 200 residential complexes. In 1988, her remarkable achievements were recognized with the Women in Real Estate Award by the New York Real Estate Board.
After marrying Herb in 1989, Ellen sold her business and joined him in launching a new venture, CandyLand Farm, a Thoroughbred breeding and racing operation in Middletown, Delaware. Despite no prior experience in horse racing, Herb and Ellen built one of the most respected programs in the country. Their compassion for retired racehorses and commitment to humane treatment led them to partner with their good friend, Allaire du Pont, to co-found Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA). TCA has since become a national leader in funding horse rescue organizations and supporting racetrack workers, granting over $27 million in its 35-year history.
Ellen also played an instrumental role in TERF, serving as Treasurer and continuing today as a Trustee. She has served on the Belmont Child Care Association Advisory Board, and contributed her leadership to the University of Pennsylvania Library Board of Overseers for sixteen years. A lifelong advocate for animal welfare, Ellen has served on the board of the Maryland SPCA, and as Vice President of the Lords Valley Country Club in Pennsylvania.
Together, Herb and Ellen Moelis exemplify the power of vision, generosity, and purpose. From business success to groundbreaking philanthropic efforts in education, healthcare, and animal welfare, their legacy continues to inspire.
