On October 18th, 2021 we loss an American hero, the Honorable Colin L. Powell. A four-star general and diplomat, he was the first African-American Secretary of State, served as the 16th United States Security Advisor from 1987 to 1989, and was the 12th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1989 to 1993. Colin Powell worked under the leadership of four presidents including George W. Bush, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Ronald Reagan. During his career, Mr. Colin Powell won numerous U.S. and foreign military awards and decorations. As a civilian, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom two times, the Congressional Gold Medal, and the Secretary’s Distinguished Service Award.
While well known for his military career and various positions held, both General Powell and his wife, Alma, were highly respected as advocates for children and as leaders who transcend partisan politics. Colin Powell became America's Promise Alliance Founding Chairman. America’s Promise Alliance is devoted to helping to create the conditions for success for all young people. The organization's belief is that all children are capable of learning and thriving, and that every individual, institution and sector shares the responsibility to help young people succeed. The organization is the nation’s largest partnership of its kind, bringing together hundreds of national nonprofits, businesses, communities, educators and ordinary citizens behind the idea of making the promise of America accessible to all young people. Mrs. Powell currently serves as Chair of America's Promise.
Former Secretary of State Colin Powell was important to Elementary School District 159. In 2006, Elementary School District 159 opened its newly built school named in his honor, Colin Powell Middle School. The school name selection was made by the Board of Education after input from staff, parents, and other community members. While a number of school names were suggested, the overall sentiment was to name the school after Former U.S. Secretary of State, Colin Powell and to honor his many accomplishments. The school opened its doors in August of 2006. It is the only school in the State of Illinois named in his honor.
In October of 2006, the school district received a call from Former Secretary of State, Colin Powell. He was in the Chicagoland area and wanted to see the school named in his honor. He didn’t want media there. No fanfare. When he arrived, he toured the entire building and visited classrooms, spending time with the students.
Prior to visiting the school, he had learned that a school was being named in his honor and wrote a letter to the students. In the letter he wrote, “I am very pleased and flattered to have Colin Powell Intermediate School named in my honor. I have received many awards and honors over the years, but nothing pleases me more than to have a wonderful school named after me. It makes me very proud. That means, however, that I have high expectations for all of you – so listen to your teachers, study hard, be respectful of one another, and do your very best!”
We honor the legacy and memory of the late General Colin Powell and thank him for his service to our country.
