Recognizing Madeleine Albright

Dear DU community members,

As you may have heard, today we lost a beloved member of the DU community, former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. The University of Denver had in Albright an enthusiastic, inspirational and passionate champion. She saw in the University and our mission a profound ability to build a better future for all. And in our students, she saw the vision, dedication and leadership the world needs. 

The daughter of Josef Korbel, late DU dean, founder and namesake for the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, Madeleine Albright and her family have had an enduring impact on the University of Denver. Albright, a committed philanthropist, helped established the Josef Korbel Endowed Fellowship Fund, which provides support to master’s and doctoral students at our esteemed Korbel School. As well, she was generous with her time and the incredible value of her experiences. She often engaged with the DU community personally by attending events and speaking directly with our students, faculty and community members. Most recently, we welcomed Albright to DU to speak with another former U.S. Secretary of State and DU alumna, Condoleezza Rice.

Madeleine Albright’s legacy is a testament to an illustrious career. A professor, author, diplomat and businesswoman, Albright’s work is distinguished by a lifelong commitment to making a difference. Serving as the first female U.S. Secretary of State from 1997-2001, Albright broke barriers and helped lead the country through complex challenges. She also worked on a number of foundations serving global justice, as a strategic consultant and as a writer and globally recognized thought leader.

Madeleine Albright was an advocate, supporter, advisor and friend to the University of Denver. We are grateful and honored to have had so much time and opportunity to learn from her, and we send our heartfelt condolences to her loved ones. She will be so missed here at DU.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Haefner