MCC Statement on the Passing of Colin Powell

WASHINGTON, D.C., (October 18, 2020) - The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is deeply saddened by the passing of former Secretary of State and MCC's first Board of Directors Chair Colin L. Powell.

Powell - the first African American national security advisor and Secretary of State - was a veteran diplomat, military leader, and a consummate trailblazer in foreign policy. The remarkable contributions throughout his career and life will have lasting, positive impacts for generations to come.

MCC is especially grateful for Powell's leadership in advancing U.S. efforts to provide foreign assistance throughout the world. Thanks to Powell and the President George W. Bush Administration, bi-partisan Congressional leaders, and advocates across the development community, MCC was established in 2004 and today remains a leading US bilateral agency in the fight against global poverty through economic growth.

Powell served as MCC's Board chair from February 2004 to January 2005 and helped shape the very foundation of MCC, saying "we set out…to do development differently." Due in part to Powell's work, MCC programs have helped millions of people across the globe.

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