Ernie Wentcher & our organization's history
The Wentcher Foundation is endowed and sustained by the legacy of the late Ernest “Ernie” Wentcher, the founder of the organization. He was born in Siberia in 1914 and at age of 3, he and his family fled Russia to the United States during the Russian Revolution. Through his own educational experience, he developed the fundamental belief that education is a vehicle for changing the world. Ernie’s experiences and values shape the Foundation’s vision for building a better future through student empowerment.
Ernie believed a financial barrier should never stop a student from attending college. He was known for developing personal relationships with students. He’d learn about their lives, provide career and school advice, and give them the financial support they needed to prosper. Through his boundless inquisitiveness, he engaged others at all levels of society in conversation and always aimed to “lend a helping hand.”
Built on the legacy of Ernest “Ernie” Wentcher and his vision for empowering high-character individuals, the Wentcher Foundation supports its scholars through college and prepares them for success following graduation.
Remembering Ernie Wentcher
