Farewell Congresswoman Nita Lowey
Congresswoman Nita Lowey, pictured here with colleagues from the Basic Education Coalition, has passed away at the age of 87. Lowey was a tireless advocate on education for all, achieving significant funding US government funding for this area as well as authoring the READ act, which strengthened systems to build long term sustainability in global education.
All of us working with IPNEd have been saddened to learn of the death of former Congresswoman Nita Lowey, who passed away on 16 March at the age of 87. She was a hugely respected advocate for education for all,and was described by Connecticut Rep. and IPNEd member, Rosa DeLauro as a “fierce negotiator and loyal public servant”.
Her long career in the US Congress was marked by impressive achievements across several policy areas, both domestic and international. And in the education community we all knew her as someone who was utterly unstoppable in her championing of global education rights.
She led on international education funding increases, achieving a tenfold increase in US government funding in this area. In addition she authored the Reinforcing Education Accountability in Development (READ) Act, which was first authorised in 2017 and reauthorised at the end of 2024 owing to her continued support, which had continued in her retirement.
IPNEd member Rep Mike Quigley (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Congressional International Basic Education Caucus has reflected on her achievements and the importance of ongoing work to support education for all:
“It has been an honor to serve in the House with Congresswoman Lowey and serve alongside her on the International Basic Education Caucus. Education is not only a critical issue here in the United States, but one of the most important initiatives that we pursue abroad. Supporting basic education supports international growth and strengthens the US’s standing around the world. No one understands this better than Congresswoman Lowey. Throughout her career she has prioritized education and led the way for so many of us who have come after her. Our responsibility now is to continue her mission in the years to come.”
Alongside her congressional colleagues and US civil society we pay tribute to Nita Lowey’s incredible work and dedication. She will be sorely missed by a great many people working in support of education for all.
