The Century Foundation (TCF) is saddened to learn of the passing of Alan Brinkley, former TCF Chairman, who died last night in his New York City home. Brinkley joined The Century Foundation as a trustee in 1996, and became Chair of the Board in 1999, a position he held until 2013.

Current TCF Chairman Bradley Abelow and TCF President Mark Zuckerman released the following statement in response to the news of Alan’s passing:

“Alan was a world-class historian, a visionary leader, and a warm colleague and friend. His contributions to the field of political history cannot be overstated. He broadened and deepened our understanding of liberalism—and, in particular, the forces opposed to it—perhaps better than anyone in his generation. Alan not only knew history: he had an unparalleled understanding of how that history affects our present day and influences our future. He helped birth a new wave of scholarship, and his work will surely continue to inspire scholars for decades to come.

“Alan’s impact on The Century Foundation is just as lasting. As Chairman of the Board for more than a decade, he helped steer TCF through some of its most pivotal moments in recent history—from our rebranding as The Century Foundation, to the hiring of Janice Nittoli as president, to our work throughout the 2000s to help save Social Security from privatization. Alan’s leadership was instrumental in helping transform TCF into a stronger, more responsive, and more effective think tank.

“On behalf of The Century Foundation’s staff and trustees, we are deeply in gratitude of Alan’s many years of service to TCF, and mourn his loss. Our thoughts go out to Alan’s family and friends.”