Pini Herman was born in Budapest, Hungary, and arrived in the United States as a refugee, following the Hungarian Revolt of 1956. His family’s journey as immigrants shaped his lifelong commitment to justice, community, and democracy.

His life’s work—across research, organizing, teaching, and advocacy—reflects a single through-line: a dedication to lifting up community voices, strengthening democracy, and ensuring that public policy serves the dignity of all people.

Educated at Tel Aviv University (BSW), Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion (MA Jewish Communal Service), and the University of Southern California (MSW, PhD), Pini’s training spans community organizing, policy, administration, and social work with a focus on demography* and cultural geography*. In 2008, he was recognized with an Honorary Doctorate of Jewish Communal Service by HUC-JIR 2008.

In his career, Pini served as Research Director at the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, Research Assistant Professor in Geography at the University of Southern California, and Planning Analyst at United Way of Greater Los Angeles. His professional path reflects a deep commitment to front-line social work. He worked as a Street Youth Outreach Worker in Hollywood and as a Street Gang Social Worker for the Tel Aviv Municipality, supporting some of society’s most vulnerable communities.

For more than four decades, Pini has combined scholarship, social work, and grassroots leadership to advance equity and civic participation in Los Angeles and beyond. As a Volunteer Leader with OneLA–Industrial Areas Foundation (2010–present), through Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills, he helped organize public health and equity initiatives during the COVID-19 crisis, ensuring vulnerable populations had access to vaccinations and care. His work also influenced Los Angeles County health and transportation policies, improving access to essential services for underserved communities.