Michael Gellert, philanthropist, venture capitalist, and vital member of the Council community, passed away on August 17 at the age of 90. Born in Prague in 1931, Gellert was a general partner of the investment firm Windcrest Partners, which he cofounded in 1968, a director of Dalet Technologies, and a director emeritus of Seacor Holdings. He received a BA from Harvard University and an MBA from the Wharton School.

In addition to his business career, Gellert devoted much of his time, knowledge, and experience to advancing the work of nonprofits, including the Carnegie Institution for Science, Human Rights Watch, the New School for Social Research, Caramoor Center for Music and Arts, and Brunswick School. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2000 and was a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

For nearly a decade, Gellert has provided essential insight and leadership as a member of the Council’s Board of Directors and Visiting Committee. We will miss his guidance, good humor, and dedication to building a more just and democratic world.