November 29, 2023

Statement From José A. Cabrales, AASCU’s Executive in Charge, on Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter

Contact:
Kellee Edmonds
(202) 478-4662


WASHINGTON, November 29, 2023 – José A. Cabrales, Executive in Charge at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), issued the following statement in response to the celebration of life for Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter:

“Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter lived her life as a selfless example for all. She was beloved and renowned as a mental health advocate and humanitarian. Additionally, for those of us in higher education, Mrs. Carter will always be remembered as a champion for state colleges and universities and the diverse students and communities they serve.

A 1946 graduate of Georgia Southwestern College (now Georgia Southwestern State University), Mrs. Carter received AASCU’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1987. In her remarks at the annual meeting held in New Orleans that year, the former first lady noted, ‘Because of state colleges, all sorts of young people who normally wouldn’t be getting a college education are able to,’ she said. ‘That is something we have to see continued,’ she concluded.

On behalf of AASCU, we send our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.”

Rosalynn Carter receives the DAA in 1987 from Hoke Smith and William H. Capitan, president of Georgia Southwestern College.
Rosalynn Carter receives the DAA in 1987 from Hoke Smith and William H. Capitan, president of Georgia Southwestern College.

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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of 350 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise.