Context:

David Gergen, a prominent adviser to four U.S. presidents, passed away at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness. His career in Washington spanned decades, during which he held roles such as speechwriter, communications director, and counselor under Presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton. Renowned for his integrity and kindness, Gergen also contributed significantly to academia, founding the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School where he served as professor emeritus. In addition to his political career, he was a senior political analyst for CNN and authored a book on leadership. A private burial and a larger memorial service at Harvard are planned to honor his legacy and extensive contributions to public service and leadership.

Dive Deeper:

• David Gergen's extensive career in Washington politics saw him advising four U.S. presidents, namely Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton, in various capacities such as speechwriter, communications director, and counselor.

• He was celebrated for his character, integrity, and the ability to see goodness in others, as noted by colleagues like Hannah Riley Bowles from Harvard Kennedy School's Center for Public Leadership, which he founded.

• Gergen was an academic at heart, serving as a professor of public service emeritus at Harvard Kennedy School and earning 27 honorary degrees, reflecting his deep commitment to education and leadership development.

• In addition to his political and academic pursuits, Gergen was a media figure, contributing as a senior political analyst for CNN and authoring a book titled 'Hearts Touched with Fire: How Great Leaders are Made', which discusses leadership through challenging times.

• His passing will be marked by a private burial at Mount Auburn Cemetery and a memorial service at Harvard, underscoring the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life and career from both political and academic circles.