University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter issued the following statement today on the passing of Ron Withem, the university’s lobbyist from 1997 to 2017. Withem was a former Nebraska state senator who served as Speaker of the Legislature and chaired the Legislature’s Education Committee.
“Earlier today, the University of Nebraska was informed that our friend and former colleague Ron Withem has passed away.
“I never had the pleasure of meeting Ron personally, but evidence of his impact on the University of Nebraska and our state is everywhere. He clearly had a deep and personal recognition of the value of education, and his unique gift for building trusted relationships with our elected leaders will benefit students for generations to come. Those who knew him will remember Ron as a great public servant, a brilliant political mind, and a beloved friend. The University of Nebraska is a more affordable, accessible and excellent institution thanks to his service.
“Lynda and I are thinking of Ron’s wife Diane, their children Suzanne and Justin, and all of Ron’s family and friends. Nebraska has lost a great one.”