Stories from Eight Decades: A Celebration of Senator Wofford’s 86th Birthday

Last night we had the honor of attending Stories from Eight Decades: A Celebration of Harris Wofford’s 86th Birthday.  Moderated by Jonathan Capehart, member of the Washington Post editorial board, Harris shared “Stories from My Life” as part of Youth Service America’s 25^th Anniversary events.  The Ritz Carlton in Georgetown was filled with many long time friends and colleagues.  I have had the honor of knowing him for more than the last 15 years, first meeting him during the planning for the Presidents’ Summit on America’s Future.  To give a little background, Harris served as a United States Senator from Pennsylvania from 1991 to 1995 and as the fifth president of Bryn Mawr College.  He served as CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service from 1995 to 2001.  He was a special assistant on civil rights to President Kennedy and helped Sargent Shriver create the Peace Corps.  And he was an unofficial advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.   I have been fortunate to serve alongside Harris on the Points of Light Board.  Harris is truly a statesman.  He has earned praise by presidents on both sides of the isle.  I have heard Presidents Bush (41), Clinton and Bush (43) laud Harris for his selfless dedication to not only service to others but encouraging others to also serve.  The stories, anecdotes and accolades of this heartwarming tribute are too many to include here.  Harris has been writing his memoirs and many of us have been urging him to finish.  This great man has been an inspiration to so many, including me, and his dedication and hard work for the betterment of this nation and the human race will be felt for years to come.  It has been a privilege to call him a friend.