The Westchester County Board of Legislators mourns the loss of Herman S. Geist, whose century of life exemplified service above self. As our first-ever Chairman from 1970 to 1973, Herman laid the foundation for everything we are today. He guided our institution through its earliest days with wisdom earned through a lifetime of dedication to community, county, and country.

From the battlefields of World War II where he helped liberate Domažlice, to the halls of county government, to his tireless work co-founding the Westchester Parks Foundation, Herman's life was defined by purpose. His contributions touched every corner of our community - from the parks where families gather to the medical center that serves our most vulnerable neighbors. The more than $15 million he helped raise for county parks stands as testament to his belief that public service means making life better for everyone.

We are forever grateful to have walked in Herman's footsteps. In naming our summer fellowship program in his honor, we ensure that young people entering public service will know the name of the man who showed us what true leadership looks like. Today, we pledge to carry forward the legacy of service he built with his own hands.