Statement by Timothy E. Wirth, Vice Chairman, United Nations Foundation on the death of Stephen Strickland, polio eradication leader

Senator Timothy E. Wirth issued today the following statement on the passing of key leader in polio eradication efforts, Stephen Strickland. Strickland spent over 15 years working with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative partners and Polio Advocacy Group to help mobilize resources for polio eradication and advocating on behalf of the world’s poorest, most at-risk children. Thanks to his efforts, tens of millions of dollars have been pledged from over 12 countries towards polio eradication.

“Steve Strickland was one of our dearest friends in Washington. He was mentor to me when I first arrived as a White House Fellow, and I have treasured his friendship since.

Steve was one of the world’s great unsung idealists – persistent, visionary and committed. His career spanned years as a health care scholar, then a leader of the Aspen Institute program, and in his final years, helping the UN Foundation reach toward the goal of eradicating polio.

He was a wise, gentle and loyal friend, and Wren and I will miss him, as we have his wonderful wife, Tamara. Bless you Steve, and thank you for a life well lived.”

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The United Nations Foundation builds public-private partnerships to address the world’s most pressing problems, and broadens support for the United Nations through advocacy and public outreach. Through innovative campaigns and initiatives, the Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to help the UN solve global problems. The Foundation was created in 1998 as a U.S. public charity by entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner and now is supported by global corporations, foundations, governments, and individuals. For more information go to www.unfoundation.org