Chancellor Shields Issues Statement on the Passing of David Pryor
Arkansas State University Chancellor Todd Shields has released the following statement on the passing of David Pryor, former Governor of and U.S. Senator for the state of Arkansas:
“Karen and I join with Arkansans everywhere to mourn the loss of David Pryor, a dedicated public servant who devoted his life to serving the people of this state with integrity and compassion. His commitment to increase access to education helped shape the future of generations of students in our state.
I first had the privilege to know Senator Pryor when I was a young political science professor. He wanted to impact young Arkansans directly, and we co-taught an undergraduate public policy course. As an educator, there are moments you see lives change in real time. I saw it teaching with Senator Pryor, and over the years, many of our students have confirmed to me that he did just that.
Later, Provost White and I had the privilege of supporting the David and Barbara Pryor Center for Arkansas Oral and Visual History, where the Senator and Mrs. Pryor were active and dedicated benefactors. Their center ensures that the cultural heritage of Arkansans will be preserved for future Arkansans.
I will always be grateful to call him a good friend. His legacy will be remembered through those of us who are better because of his mentorship, leadership, advocacy and lifetime of outstanding service.”
