Statement by Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, President of The Rockefeller Foundation, on Passing of U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller

We are all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Senator John D. “Jay” Rockefeller IV, an extraordinary public servant whose unwavering commitment to helping those left behind is an inspiration to each of us.

On behalf of the trustees and team at The Rockefeller Foundation, we extend our deepest condolences to our dear colleague and friend Sharon and to their children John V, Valerie, Charles, and Justin, and to all who loved and admired him.

Throughout his remarkable life and career, Sen. Rockefeller distinguished himself as a champion of the least well-off. He was an early, unwavering supporter of extending health care to every American, especially children, the elderly, and the disabled. He fought for coal miners and rural families in his adopted home state of West Virginia, which he fell in love with as a young volunteer.

Earlier in his career, Sen. Rockefeller served on The Rockefeller Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Years later, when his wife Sharon became a trustee, the two of them were enthusiastic supporters and generous hosts, opening their home for discussions about how the Foundation could help expand opportunity for all Americans.

Sen. Rockefeller said as a young man that the Rockefeller name “stands for public service, a sense of responsibility, and a high standard of demand on oneself.” He added, “I wanted the name and the responsibility.”

His farewell speech on the Senate floor captured that same spirit of service: “When we accomplish something that is meaningful to the people who have trusted us to represent them, there is no greater reward.”

What a powerful example. As we offer our love and support to Sen. Rockefeller’s family, we will also reaffirm our own commitment to continue his legacy of fighting for communities most in need.