Lee Hamilton

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Indiana University President Pamela Whitten issued the following statement following the passing of Lee Hamilton: (read the full statement)

"Our school, state, and nation lost a foreign policy giant with the passing of Congressman Hamilton.

Rep. Hamilton’s commitment to the power of diplomacy to make the world more just and secure  -- and his judgment, independence, and confidence in the resilience of American democratic institutions -- set the tone for our school, and inspired our students and faculty.

A daily presence from his office on the fourth floor, Rep. Hamilton was as dedicated to the school as he was confident about its future, which he described as an “unending flow of talented young people, I call them an endless line of splendor, coming from this school, — well prepared, eager, energetic to confront the formidable challenges of the day in international relations.”

Our school is proud and privileged to carry on and extend the Congressman's legacy."

Indiana lost a giant today. Lee Hamilton was a statesman, a respected voice on national security, and a strong advocate for Hoosiers. He was also a friend, an insightful writer, and a unique voice on the institution of Congress. My deepest condolences to Lee’s family and loved ones as they celebrate his remarkable life.

Karen and I were deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former Congressman Lee Hamilton. Congressman Lee Hamilton was a towering figure, who served Indiana with distinction across 17 terms in Congress, and we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the entire Hamilton family. I first met Lee Hamilton when I was just a high school student and he was my hometown congressman at the time. With his love for our country and tireless commitment to our security and democracy, Lee was a leading figure who helped propel me into my own life of public service. While our politics diverged, my respect for him was boundless. His more than three decades of service representing Indiana’s 9th Congressional District and his dedicated civic work throughout his lifetime of service marked by character and integrity shaped Indiana and America in profound and lasting ways. Congressman Lee Hamilton was a cherished friend and true statesman who made Indiana proud and America stronger. He will be deeply missed. God Bless Lee Hamilton.