On Aug. 25th, 2018, Senator and former Presidential Candidate John McCain died at age 81, after battling with brain cancer. University of Arizona President Dr. Robert C. Robbins published a statement in response to his passing. 

Robbins holds the words McCain offered up as speaker for the 2005 University of Arizona Commencement ceremony in high esteem. 

“Sen. John McCain told Wildcat graduates that he believed ‘the true worth of a person is measured by how faithfully we serve a cause greater than our self-interest, that encompasses us but is not defined by our existence alone,’” says Robbins. 

McCain’s advice resonated with Robbins, and the UA president recognized the tenacity and determination that characterized McCain the war veteran all his life. 

Despite his condition, McCain was always one to speak against the current political turmoil and disbelief in the United States. 

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“By that standard, Sen. McCain’s value has been immeasurable. Through a higher standard of service rooted in honor, courage and commitment, he inspires us to reach across national boundaries and philosophical differences to learn from and care for each other,” says the president. 

Robbins noted that McCain never stopped fighting for his country, whether that was on the battlefield or in office. If it was not for his fortitude, Arizonans might not hold to the core values they have today. 

President Robbins ends his statement with his gratitude to McCain for being a distinguished and conscientious citizen of the nation:

“I was blessed to have met this unique and honorable American hero. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Cindy and his family.”

For the full statement, click here

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