Champion of Churchill Scholars and Distinguished Financier
Patrick A. Gerschel, Chairman and President of the Winston Churchill Foundation of the United States died in late December 2025 at the age of 79. Through his steady leadership and generosity, he helped shape one of the most prestigious international fellowships for American students, the Churchill Scholarship, and ensured its continuation for future generations.
Mr. Gerschel guided the Churchill Scholarship programme with dedication and strategic vision, and was involved for over 40 years. Annually, the programme funds 18 Churchill Scholars to do a one-year Master’s degree at Churchill College, focused on STEM or Public Policy, and six Churchill Summer Bursaries which fund Churchill undergraduates to pursue summer research in American institutions. Under his stewardship, the Winston Churchill Foundation flourished, overseeing the careful selection and support of scholars from across the U.S.
The Patrick A. Gerschel Foundation became a consistent and significant donor to the Winston Churchill Foundation, enabling the scholarship program during critical periods. In 2008, the University of Cambridge honoured him as a benefactor.
Born in Boston on March 20, 1946, Mr. Gerschel was the grandson of Andre Meyer, the managing partner of Lazard Freres, who helped shape modern investment banking. Mr Gerschel achieved a BA in Economics from Cornell University in 1968, and completed advanced coursework in accounting, finance, and economics at New York University. In 1969, he began his association with Lazard Freres & Co., working up to senior roles from investment analyst to Partner and ultimately Vice Chairman of Lazard Realty.
In 1980, Mr. Gerschel founded Gerschel & Company, where he served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
Beyond the Churchill Foundation, Mr. Gerschel was deeply engaged in cultural and educational institutions bridging American and international communities. He served as Trustee Emeritus of the Asia Society, Treasurer of the American Friends of the Louvre, and Vice Chairman and Treasurer of the French Institute: Alliance Française. He formerly chaired investment committees supporting the Pasteur Institute and the Curie Institute. In recognition of his contributions to culture and international relations, the French government honored him as an Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and a Chevalier of the Legion d’honneur.
Mr. Gerschel is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Fox Gerschel; his three children, Nathalie Gerschel Kaplan, Karyn Gerschel Lamb, and Edouard Gerschel; and his six grandchildren.
Churchill College is profoundly grateful for his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientific and public policy leaders through the Churchill Scholarship, for his wise and generous guidance of the Winston Churchill Foundation, and for his active engagement in and enthusiasm for the College and its mission. His vision and dedication have touched the lives of countless scholars who will carry forward his legacy of excellence. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will resonate through generations of Churchill Scholars yet to come.