Alexander leaves legacy in education, research
On behalf of Vanderbilt University, the alma mater of U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, I would like to congratulate him for a remarkable career at many levels of public service — U.S. senator, secretary of education and as a popular governor of Tennessee. Throughout his five-decade tenure, Alexander has worked to improve the lives of countless constituents here at home, and for many people across America. Throughout his career, Alexander has been a tireless champion for science, education and innovation, understanding that these are tools to improve society on a broad and meaningful scale.
As a student at Vanderbilt, Alexander proved himself a capable leader early on, both as a member of the track and field team and as editor of the student newspaper, where he advocated for racial integration of the student body.
The career that followed would be marked by many milestones. In 1978, Alexander famously traversed his home state campaigning for the governor’s seat in his trademark red-and-black plaid shirt. He connected with voters in a way that helped bring about a spirit of civic unity and renewal. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush appointed Alexander as U.S. Secretary of Education, sparking his longstanding dedication to education and research at the federal level.
For the past four years, Alexander has chaired the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. He was principal sponsor for the 21st Century Cures Act, which laid the groundwork for much of the research this year into treatments for the novel coronavirus. He also was the principal champion of the America COMPETES Act, which recommitted the federal government to investing in the scientific research that is critical to maintaining American leadership in innovation and technology.
Even as his retirement draws near, Alexander is not taking a victory lap. Instead, he is continuing to work to ensure that students, particularly low-income students, can more easily apply for the federal financial aid they need to access higher education.
Vanderbilt is proud to count Alexander among our most distinguished alumni. We hope that his dedication to service, and his enduring commitment to social and scientific progress, will be a model for generations of students to come.
Vanderbilt University does not support or oppose any candidate for elective public office, and this op-ed does not constitute, nor should it be deemed, support or opposition to any such candidate.
Daniel Diermeier is the chancellor of Vanderbilt University.