The USGLC joins our nation and citizens across the globe in mourning the loss of Richard Lugar – a leader that everyone listened to and learned from – who became the unmatched icon of bipartisan internationalism. His 36 years of service in the U.S. Senate, serving twice as Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, made an unparalleled imprint on building a better, safer world.

While he is best known for leadership on nuclear non-proliferation, for the USGLC he will always be remembered for his powerful voice on the importance of America’s global leadership. From his steadfast commitment to elevating and strengthening America’s diplomats and foreign assistance programs to fighting hunger worldwide to leading PEPFAR, Senator Lugar understood that these issues mattered not only to those whom he helped overseas, but also to those whom he represented here at home. His passion for America’s development, diplomacy, and democracy programs never failed to energize Democrats and Republicans alike to pursue justice and our values around the world.

A longtime member of the USGLC’s National Advisory Council, we are immeasurably grateful for his never-ending leadership to ensure America remains that shining city on a hill.