Sherman Schapiro BS, MS, PhD, MS
I began my career as an engineer. My final position was in defense work at TRW Space Systems in the Los Angeles area where I left in 1981 when I realized I needed a change. I considered real estate so I got my license and investigated moving to Santa Rosa. After a one-week look-see, I felt like I was back in LA so I reconsidered again.
Then a friend told me about Humboldt State University. I saw that the school had environmental programs in which I might be able to use my math background in a whole new way. I paid a visit; and in the fall of 1982, I enrolled in the nascent environmental math modelling graduate program.
During my studies, I also responded to a notice in The Lumberjack that the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program which provides tax help to low income, disabled, and seniors was looking for participants. I successfully volunteered, but I also completed my MS degree.
Encouraged by my VITA experience, I decided to obtain a professional tax preparer’s license and opened a solo tax practice out of my home in Blue Lake. A few years later, I passed a 2-day Treasury Department exam which qualified me to work as an enrolled agent which essentially enabled me to do what an accountant can do when it comes to tax work. I continued in this field for over 25 years, retiring after the 2017 tax year.
In addition to the above, I was an avid runner for many years as a member of the 6 Rivers Running Club completing distances from 5k through marathons and longer. I was also an active member in the Blue Lake community and helped found the Annie & Mary Day Fiddle Contest which years later was replaced by a Humboldt Folklife Society music event. Coincidentally, I also served 6 consecutive terms on the Blue Lake City Council through 2014 which included several terms as mayor.
I realized over time what a key player Cal Poly is in the community, so after retirement I looked for ways to support the university. One way was to establish scholarships. I have started a number of them including the Schapiro Family Music Scholarship for music majors, the Eva Janson Scholarship for nursing, and scholarships for local graduates from Eureka and McKinleyville High Schools to support their freshman year at Cal Poly Humboldt. I’ve also contributed to several other programs at the university, most recently creating an endowed scholarship through the Cal Poly Humboldt Foundation.
When I was asked if I were interested in being on the board of the Humboldt Foundation, I thought it over, and then I said yes. I felt that my experiences as a student, engineer, public official, and over 40 years in the area would allow me to add yet a different perspective to the board.
