We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. An extraordinary leader, humanitarian, and public servant, he lived a life of purpose and meaning and leaves behind a lasting, indelible impact on the world.
As we honor and celebrate his life and legacy, we extend our condolences to his family and loved ones.
President Carter was a much beloved member of the Skoll Community, receiving the Skoll Global Treasure Award in 2018. He was the first American to receive the honor, which is awarded to an individual or group demonstrating significant achievement and integrity in addressing global challenges.
On that occasion, the Skoll Foundation had the privilege of interviewing President Carter. In that interview, he told us that when he was in high school, something his teacher said struck a chord with him: “You must accommodate or welcome change, but cling to principles that never change—like truth, honesty, equality and decency.” President Carter has spent his lifetime embodying these ideals.
As a co-founder of The Carter Center and Elder Emeritus of The Elders, President Carter fought tirelessly for peace, human rights, and social justice around the world. A Nobel Peace Prize recipient in 2002, President Carter worked to prevent disease and climate change and reflected on the importance of leadership, on the incredible potential of youth-led social movements, and on the value of being “proximate” to one another as we seek to understand and connect to our fellow citizens.
Over the past century, President Carter—who grew up in the segregated South during the Great Depression and fought in World War II before serving as the 39th commander in chief—witnessed the power of unity in tackling the world’s challenges.
The video above provides a glimpse of the remarkable man that he was and the powerful wisdom he shared with so many. His words continue to guide and motivate us: “Creating understanding among people is the most pervasive need in our world and the most effective solution to its problems.”
President Carter’s unwavering optimism, longstanding commitment to human rights, and unshakeable faith in justice and democracy will continue to serve as an inspiration in our pursuit of a sustainable world of peace and prosperity for all.
