In Memoriam: Josh Pack, ’97, A Life of Leadership, Generosity and Heart

In Memoriam: Josh Pack, '97, A Life of Leadership, Generosity and Heart

By Donna Day

An error occurred while preparing your download

California State University San Marcos is mourning the passing of distinguished alumnus Joshua Pack '97, who died on Sept. 29. A devoted husband and father, proud Cougar, and tireless advocate for veterans and students, Pack leaves behind a legacy defined not only by professional success but also by kindness, humility and a deep commitment to helping others.

Pack's path to CSUSM wasn't straightforward. After beginning his higher-education journey at the U.S. Air Force Academy and transferring to another university, he eventually found his home at San Marcos, where he earned his bachelor's degree in economics in 1997. He often credited an economics professor at CSUSM with transforming his academic trajectory and helping set the foundation for his career.

Professionally, Pack rose to become co-CEO of Fortress Investment Group, one of the world's leading investment firms. Over the course of more than two decades, he built a reputation as a leader in credit and real estate investing, overseeing billions of dollars in assets and guiding teams through complex financial markets.

Pack's connection to CSUSM remained strong long after graduation. He gave his time and expertise as a member of the CSUSM Foundation Board from 2011-16, including service on the Fundraising Committee, where his vision helped strengthen the university's philanthropic efforts. He also supported the Finance Society by offering real-world insights to students preparing for their own careers.

Pack's passion for serving veterans was rooted in his upbringing as the son of Lt. Col. A.J. Pack, a U.S. Marine Corps officer who served for 22 years. Like Josh, Lt. Col. Pack served as a director of the CSUSM Foundation Board (2015-21). In his father's honor, Josh established the Lt. Col. A.J. Pack Veterans Scholarship at CSUSM, supporting military-affiliated students in pursuing their educational and career goals.

He also championed the creation of a veterans and military center on campus, which broke ground in 2013, calling the work "enormously gratifying for me and my family." In 2014, he partnered with the Veterans Center and Associated Students, Inc., to host the campus premiere of "The Hornet's Nest," a documentary about American troops in Afghanistan. The event included a post-screening Q&A with military units and filmmakers, underscoring his belief in the importance of recognizing and supporting student veterans.

In 2021, Pack reflected on his connection to CSUSM in an article on the Fortress website, noting how meaningful it was to help create a leading center for veterans and active-duty service members at the university. "The CSUSM veterans community has earned not just our thanks, but our commitment to support their dreams," he said.

Pack will be remembered for the generosity he showed to his alma mater and to the veteran community that meant so much to him. Through the Lt. Col. A.J. Pack Veterans Scholarship, his support of campus programs, and his advocacy for military-connected students, he built a legacy of service that will continue to impact lives for years to come.

Pack is survived by his wife and their four children.

"Josh was a true partner in our mission of student success," CSUSM President Ellen Neufeldt said. "He had an unwavering belief in the power of education, and he never forgot where he came from. His impact on our students, and especially our student veterans, will endure for generations, and we will carry forward his spirit of service with gratitude."

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Interim Assistant Director of Editorial and External Affairs

[email protected] | Office: 760-750-7314