We were saddened to learn of the death of Congressman Donald M. Payne, a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus who holds the distinction of being the first African American to be elected to Congress from New Jersey.
Congressman Payne was a true champion of the American ideal that anyone who works hard should be able to achieve their dreams. A former teacher, he dedicated his life to opening doors for young people to find opportunity and success, as evidenced by his efforts to bring higher education within reach of more people. And he sought to leverage the power and prestige of the United States for the purpose of helping the world’s least fortunate escape grinding poverty, conflict and disease.
In serving his constituents and all his fellow Americans with such distinction for so many years, he was a shining example of the very best in public service. He will be greatly missed.
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