Statement from Patricia Harrison on the Death of General Colin Powell

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 18, 2021) – Patricia Harrison, the President and CEO of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), released the following statement today regarding the death of General Colin Powell. Mrs. Harrison served as Acting Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs and Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs during the time General Powell served as Secretary of State:

“General Powell was the son of immigrants, a New Yorker to his core, and a great leader who treated people from all walks of life with respect. He valued family, faith and country, and his extraordinary service will continue to inspire future generations.

“It was an honor for me and my public media colleagues to work with him and Alma Powell on behalf of young people through America’s Promise Alliance and public media’s American Graduate initiative, helping youth stay on the path to a high school diploma. His leadership and support of our men and women in uniform were also demonstrated every year through his participation on PBS’s “National Memorial Day” and “A Capitol Fourth” annual concerts.

“May his memory be a blessing to his family and all who knew him.”

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