Remembering Tim Russert

The Skidmore community notes with sadness the recent death of Tim Russert, journalist, political analyst, moderator, and proud son and father. He was awarded an honorary degree by Skidmore in 2005, and was a distinguished speaker at that year's commencement.

Tim Russert and President Philip Glotzbach, Commencement 2005

"In a political and international world increasingly dominated by tension and contention, charges and countercharges, angry rhetoric and outright lies, you have consistently stood apart to set a tone of measured politeness, honesty, decency and respect," Professor Thomas Lewis said of Russert in his degree citation.

"The measure of quiet civility that you bring to the interview table often appeals to the better angels of even the most bellicose of your guests, while your direct and straight-forward probing of those whom you interview?presidents and senators, monarchs and foreign ministers, generals and diplomats among them?brings viewers to a greater appreciation of the national and international challenges that confront us. Your manner reminds us that the best way to arrive at truth lies not in promoting rancor but in encouraging reason."

In his address to the Class of 2005, Russert urged the graduates to "remember the people alongside you and below you, the people who haven't had the same opportunity, the same blessings, the same Skidmore education."

"For the good of us all," he continued, "please build a future we can all be proud of. You can do it, but please get busy?you only have 2,300 weeks before you'll be eligible for Social Security."