Following is a statement from University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel on the death
of former Vice President Dick Cheney:
It is with deep sadness that the University of Wyoming community learns of the passing
of former Vice President Dick Cheney, a distinguished alumnus whose lifelong connection
to his alma mater reflected his enduring commitment to public service and to the people
of Wyoming.
Vice President Cheney, who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political
science from UW, went on to serve his nation with distinction in numerous roles, including
as White House chief of staff, Wyoming’s U.S. representative, U.S. secretary of defense
and, ultimately, as the 46th vice president of the United States. Throughout his remarkable
career, he remained deeply proud of his Wyoming roots and often spoke of how his education
here shaped his understanding of leadership and governance.
Mr. Cheney and his family have been generous supporters of the university, contributing
to programs that continue to benefit our students and faculty. For example, thousands
of our students have been able to study abroad with support from the Richard D. and
Lynne V. Cheney Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment, and a gift from the Cheneys provided
for the creation of UW’s Cheney International Center. He also was instrumental in
UW’s Distinction Campaign, which concluded in 2005 after raising a record $204 million.
His legacy will endure not only through his public service, but also through the opportunities
he helped create for future generations of Wyoming students.
On behalf of the entire UW community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Cheney family and all who mourn his passing. We honor his life, his service and his lasting connection to the University of Wyoming.
