Statement on the Death of General Colin L. Powell

October 19, 2021, Washington, DC – The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) expresses its condolences on the passing of General Colin L. Powell. His life epitomized public service at its finest: a decorated soldier, a proven problem-solver in times of crisis, a respected diplomat and a valued counselor.

“In uniform, General Powell ably represented and fought for the democratic ideals of the United States on the battlefield and in nations near and far,” said ASPA President Allan Rosenbaum. “As our nation’s chief diplomat and in his post-government career, he remained steadfast to those ideals, championing them to those in power and those who see public service as a noble calling. His death reminds us of what it means to embody the key tenets of our profession: accountability, professionalism, ethics and equity.”

Powell served as the country’s first Black national security adviser, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and secretary of state. He began his 35-year Army career as a young second lieutenant, commissioned in the dawn of a newly desegregated Army, and by the time he retired from the military in 1993, he was the most popular public figure in America.

ASPA also extends its gratitude to the Powell family for sharing General Powell with the country throughout his distinguished lifetime.