A former Associate Dean and Professor of Law at UC Davis, Mort Schwartz has dedicated his retirement to a range of pursuits. Gourmet cooking and fly fishing are two consuming hobbies, but a true passion of Mort’s is community problem solving.

     Since joining the YCF board, Mort has been an enthusiastic advocate and supporter. He and his wife Giovanna Oettinger were among the very first members of our Founders’ Circle, pledging critical operating support to our fledgling Foundation.

     Mort and Giovanna have been instrumental to the creation of several YCF funds. One, in honor of a beloved family member, benefits promising students in South Africa. Another supports the Yolo County Law Library. Mort challenged area attorneys to contribute to the Law Library Fund, and he matched all donations made! Then there is the Acme Fund, serving the county’s elderly, as well as the Acorn Fund, focusing on children’s needs.

     Mort is currently working with the Davis Senior Center on a program that assesses the safety of homes of our elderly residents and installs simple assistive devices like grab bars, faucet adapters, etc. At the same time, he and Giovanna are brainstorming the mechanics of a fund that would distribute micro-grants to respond to local needs that might otherwise be unmet. Mort has also rolled up his sleeves to handle important board business. As a member of the governance committee, he helped draft and revise YCF’s by- laws, and this year he is again serving as a member of the nominating committee.

     Mort consistently uses his wide acquaintance in the county to publicize YCF and, in turn, to learn about unmet needs that translate into opportunities for YCF activity.

     Mort is an inspiration to his board colleagues because of his enthusiasm, energy, and unfailing “can do” approach. Mort, whatever would we do without you?