Santa Barbara AHEPA Chapter 243

Former U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell

AHEPA Mourns Passing of Former Senator Claiborne Pell
Senator was a 45-Year Member of AHEPA
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Supreme President Ike Gulas issued the following statement on the passing of Former U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell of Rhode Island:

"The AHEPA family was saddened to learn that Former Senator Claiborne Pell passed away on January 1, 2009.

"He was an extremely well-respected senator who served the citizens of Rhode Island admirably for six terms in the U.S. Senate. From 1987 to 1994, he served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee where he was a champion of Greek-American issues. Of course, he will always be remembered and saluted for the educational grants that bear his name that have allowed countless students to attend college.

"We were honored and privileged to count Senator Pell as a 45-year member of AHEPA. Senator Pell was instrumental in helping AHEPA obtain three senior citizen housing projects totaling 82 units in Newport, Rhode Island. In essence, he helped AHEPA fulfill every aspect of its mission.

"Our deepest sympathies are with the family of Senator Pell. May his memory be eternal."

Until his passing, Senator Pell was an active, faithful member of Maud Howe Elliot Chapter No. 245, Newport, R.I. He was a recipient of the AHEPA Pericles Award for excellence in public service. The senator was initiated into AHEPA on June 8, 1963.