Statement on the Passing of NDI’s Board Member Maurice Tempelsman

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The National Democratic Institute (NDI) is deeply saddened by the passing of Maurice Tempelsman, a dedicated member of our Board of Directors for many years. 

“Maurice’s commitment to democracy and his deep knowledge of Africa were constants throughout his many years of service to NDI. As an active member of the Board’s Committee on Africa, he provided invaluable guidance and steadfast support for our work across the continent,” said NDI Chair, Tom Daschle. “His leadership and kindness left a lasting mark on all of us, and we will miss him dearly.”

Mr. Tempelsman joined NDI’s Board in 1988. Reflecting on his 37 years of service to the Institute, Dr. Tamara Cofman Wittes, NDI’s president, said: “Maurice gave so much of himself to NDI and to the causes he cared about. He understood that democracy’s value is not its perfection as a system, but that it enables humans to correct its weaknesses and continue to improve it. I will miss his wisdom, his wit, and his friendship. Maurice’s loss is deeply felt across the NDI community, but his example of a life lived with purpose will continue to guide us. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work.”