Remembering Bert Getz Sr.

ACF Co-Founder & Visionary Philanthropist

May 7, 1937 – August 31, 2025

The philanthropic community lost a visionary leader recently when Bert Getz, Sr. passed away at the age of 88.

Bert was a founding member of the Arizona Community Foundation and helped create ACF’s legacy from a starting amount of $300,000 in 1978 to $1.5 billion in assets under management today and more than $109 million awarded in grants and scholarships annually.

ACF Takes Root in Arizona

In 1977, Bert rallied civic leaders around a concept familiar to his Chicago roots: the community foundation model, a revolutionary approach to philanthropy that would pool resources, amplify impact, and create lasting change across Arizona’s diverse communities.

“Early in his life, Bert was involved in the Chicago Community Foundation and in the late 1970’s recognized the importance that a community foundation would serve a young state like Arizona,” said Neal Kurn, ACF Board Chair from 1994-1995. “Bert maintained his involvement with ACF for the rest of his life, and he was frequently called upon when it faced critical issues. The last time Bert and I talked, he expressed his extreme pride in the growth and sophistication of ACF.”

Bert partnered with longtime civic activist Newton Rosenzweig in Phoenix and members of the DeConcini family in Tucson for the initial funds to get started. Valley National Bank Chairman Roger Lyon also put the banking industry’s support behind a feasibility study, setting the stage for something remarkable.

By August 1978, the Arizona Community Foundation was officially incorporated with $300,000 in founding assets from these three visionary families: Evo and Ora DeConcini, Newton and Betty Rosenzweig, and Bert Getz. This effort created Arizona’s first statewide community foundation.

Building a Legacy of Service

Bert’s commitment to ACF extended far beyond its founding. He served on the board from 1980 to 1989, helping guide the foundation through its crucial early years. During this time, he also established The Globe Fund, which continues under ACF’s management today.

“Bert was an inspiration to so many of us for his passion and dedication to charitable giving, and he will truly be missed by his fellow philanthropists not just in Arizona, but across the country,” said Anna María Chávez, ACF President & CEO. “I am proud that ACF can continue to share his legacy and history with generations to come.”

The Getz family philosophy centered on a simple yet powerful principle: giving back is an inherent responsibility that comes with growing family wealth. This belief shaped not only Bert’s philanthropic approach but also will continue to influence generations to come.

A Distinguished Career of Impact

Bert built an impressive career in banking and business leadership. He served as Director and Chairman Emeritus of Globe Corporation while holding director positions at Security Pacific Corp., Security Pacific National Bank-Los Angeles, and Security Pacific Bank Arizona. His expertise even earned him a role as Director of the Federal National Mortgage Association under the Reagan Administration.

Recognition for his philanthropic leadership came in many forms, including being the first recipient of the Indiana University Herman B. Wells Visionary Award in 2000. His service extended to numerous organizations, including the Mayo Foundation, Indiana University Foundation, Rodel Foundation, and National Historical Foundation.

Honoring a Philanthropic Pioneer

As we remember Bert, we celebrate not just a successful businessman or dedicated board member, but a true philanthropic pioneer who understood that lasting change requires sustainable systems. His legacy lives on through every grant distributed, every fund established, and every donor who chooses to invest in Arizona’s future through ACF. For those considering their own philanthropic journey, his story serves as both inspiration and invitation.

Bert is survived by his wife Sandra, two children, and seven grandchildren along with a statewide network of communities strengthened by his vision and dedication to Arizona’s philanthropic future.

Those wishing to honor Bert are invited to support the Mayo Foundation and/or the Flower Fund at The Lawrenceville School.