Herman E. Warsh
(1924 – 2006)
Herman Warsh and his wife, Maryanne Mott, created the CS Fund in 1981. They also endowed the Warsh-Mott Legacy to assure the continuation of their philanthropy beyond their lifetimes. Over the course of his lifetime, Herman and Maryanne supported hundreds of progressive initiatives via these foundations as well as through their own personal giving.
Herman was a fierce defender of constitutional rights. He believed that dissent is essential to a democratic society and as such is an expression of true patriotism. He was also a passionate advocate on a number of environmental issues. Well beyond money, he gave generously of his time, serving on several boards of directors including the Fund for Santa Barbara, High Country News, and Pacifica Graduate Institute. Herman chaired the board of the Environmental Policy Institute during a merger that combined three organizations into what is now Friends of the Earth US, one of the nation’s key progressive environmental institutions.
Herman passed away in Santa Barbara on April 18, 2006, surrounded by family and friends.
Herman’s courage and commitment served as an inspiration to CS Fund staff and board. He has our enduring admiration and affection, and his vision will continue to guide our work.