LaHood to Take Top Role of Edgar Fellows Program
Former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood eulogizes former Gov. Jim Edgar at Edgar’s funeral in September. LaHood will succeed Edgar as the “face” of the Edgar Fellows program. (Photo: Chicago Tribune)
Almost three months after the death of former Governor Jim Edgar, one of his closest friends in politics is set to take the reins of the former governor’s “Edgar Fellows” program.
Former Congressman and former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood will be named the “Distinguished Director” of the Edgar Fellows program today, essentially following Edgar as the face of the program.
Jim Edgar died in September from complications of pancreatic cancer.
Edgar Fellows is a program that brings together 40 professionals in politics and government each year to explore leadership and public policy.
LaHood, a Republican who turns 80 later this week, served in Congress from 1993-2009 when he became Transportation Secretary for Democratic President Barack Obama. He served in the Obama administration for 3 1/2 years.
“I am honored and humbled to be named Distinguished Director of Edgar Fellows,” LaHood says in a statement. My special thanks to Brenda Edgar and the Edgar Board of Directors for their trust and confidence to lead this outstanding leadership program. We plan to continue with the vision of our beloved Governor Edgar to recognize and develop bipartisan leadership for Illinois.”
Edgar’s widow, Brenda Edgar, praised LaHood’s selection.
“Edgar Fellows is Jim’s living legacy to the State of Illinois. The entire Edgar family is pleased that long-time friend and respected Illinoisan Ray LaHood will be joining the organization in this important role,” Brenda Edgar said in a statement. “We know that he will continue to reinforce the importance of principled, bipartisan leadership.”
We’re told Janet Mathis will continue as Executive Director of the program and LaHood’s role will mirror Edgar’s, including for fundraising and guiding the direction of programming.
LaHood was our guest on the radio Wednesday. You can hear the conversation here.
