Francis Sara Lani Gotkowitz - Class of 1975

Frances Gotkowitz Endowment Honors an Acute Mind and Generous Spirit Frances Gotkowitz changed the course of many lives during her 45 years. Frances died in September 2003, but her dedication to improving the lives of young people endures through the Frances Gotkowitz Endowment for Youth Philanthropy, recently established in her honor by her mother, Helen Gotkowitz. “This wonderful gift is so meaningful because of Frances’ strong connection with youth and her commitment to giving,” said Marjory Kaplan, CEO. “Frances’ experience in education set the course for the JCF’s Youth Philanthropy program.” Ten years ago, Frances worked with JCF staff to evaluate the first ever Community Youth Foundation. Frances conducted interviews with teen participants to assess the program’s impact. Since then, more than 220 teens have participated in the Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy programs. A talented and creative teacher, Frances tutored B’nai Mitzvah and other students in Hebrew, taking a special interest in students with learning disabilities. She imbued confidence and self-assurance through her affirming teaching methods. In her later years, Frances revived long-deferred plans to enter graduate school. In 2001, she was awarded a San Diego Fellowship to join UCSD’s Ph.D. program in Comparative Literature. She was deeply engaged in her studies, and had the unique ability to make every experience, positive or otherwise, a learning experience for others. May her memory be a blessing.