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VOOZH | about |
Gerstner Philanthropies was founded by Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. and includes the Gerstner Family Foundation, founded in 1989, and other philanthropic vehicles of the Gerstner family.
The program areas ā Biomedical Research, Environment, Education, and Helping Hands ā are of personal importance to the family. Most grants are made in metropolitan New York, Boston, and Palm Beach County, communities where the Gerstner family lives and works.
Mr. Gerstnerās children took on leadership roles in 1997 and have helped to expand the foundationās reach over the years; Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner accepted the role of Chair following her father's passing in December 2025.
š ImageLouis V. Gerstner, Jr. and family
š ImageLouis V. Gerstner III in a classroom
Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner serves as Chair of Gerstner Philanthropies, stewarding the foundationās commitment to disciplined, long-term philanthropy and impact. She has been a significant part of the foundationās evolution. In particular, Elizabeth's experience as a neuro-oncologist and general medical background are critical to the foundationās biomedical research grantmaking. She also spearheaded the foundation's environment program and continues to play an important role in the foundationās work across program areas.
Louis V. Gerstner III was serving as President at the time of his untimely passing in 2013. Louis possessed great intelligence, energy and warmth, and was passionate about the foundationās work, especially providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged children. Read a wonderful tribute to Louis and his life.
The foundationās assets and grantmaking have grown significantly over the years. In 1990, the foundationās first year of giving, it made grants totaling $23,000. Today, millions of dollars in grants are distributed each year.
We honor the life and legacy of Louis V. Gerstner Jr., whose leadership and vision shaped Gerstner Philanthropies and continue to guide its work.