I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend Rod Paige. For more than twenty years, Rod and I were united by our shared belief that every child deserves equal opportunity, and that begins with equal education. Rod worked with me to help protect access to after-school programs that allow children to continue to learn and grow into their potential while both parents are working, while also protecting them from the biggest thieves of opportunity: crime, teenage pregnancy, drugs, and alcohol. Rod’s wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to children inspired me and so many others. I will miss his friendship, his counsel, and his giant heart. Today we mourn a great man, but we also celebrate an extraordinary legacy that will continue lifting up generations of young people. My thoughts are with Rod’s family and all who loved him.

The USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy is proud to announce that former United States Secretary of Education Miguel A. Cardona, Ed.D., has joined its Board of Advisors.