STATEMENT: CAP’s Patrick Gaspard on the Passing of Susan Sandler

Washington, D.C. — Following the news that Susan Sandler has passed, Patrick Gaspard, president and CEO of the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:

Susan Sandler was a philanthropic giant in her support of progressive causes, including the Center for American Progress. Because of her early support and counsel, CAP has become a go-to laboratory for progressive ideas and a key institute for pushing back against assaults to social, economic, and racial justice.

Susan had a commitment to a specific theory of change—in the power of diversity to transform how we navigate our nation’s most pressing policy debates—that both formed the bedrock of her philanthropic approach and informed CAP’s fundamental values. Put simply, CAP, and the entire country, would not be what it is without the support, talents, and heart of Susan Sandler. Her conviction and commitment to justice are an inspiration to me and countless others. 

The entire CAP family and I extend our condolences to her husband, Steve Phillips, the Sandler family, and all of those fortunate enough to have worked with her over the years. While we grieve her passing today, we remain committed to advancing the causes she held so dear for years to come.

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