CECU Statement on Death of Congressman Alcee Hastings

Arlington, Va. — Throughout his nearly 30-year career in Congress, Congressman Alcee Hastings was a renowned source of strong and influential leadership. A staunch advocate for his constituents, he was willing to listen to both sides and reach across the aisle on issues most critical to the communities he represented. He will be remembered as a rare champion for those whose voice is most often forgotten – those in need and those who are most vulnerable. He will be sorely missed in South Florida, in Washington, and across the nation.

Congressman Hastings was a longtime champion of schools in the proprietary sector, recognizing them as a venue for life-changing opportunities for those who might otherwise have no options to pursue higher education. His support of career and technical education was unparalleled in Congress. His leadership made a tremendous difference for students, communities, and the workforce. All of us at CECU mourn his passing and extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Patricia, his children, and his extended family. May they be comforted by the knowledge that Alcee’s was a life well lived, positively impacting countless others and leaving a lasting legacy of achievement rare for anyone in public life.

“I am deeply saddened to learn about Alcee’s passing,” said CECU President and CEO, Dr. Jason Altmire, a former colleague of Hastings’ in the U.S. House of Representatives, “He approached his final battle the way he approached everything in his life – with tenacity, strength, and grace. His legacy will carry forward forever. May he rest in peace.”

###

Please direct media inquiries to Rachel Tripp, Director of Communications, at Rachel.Tripp@career.org