[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 27 (Monday, February 10, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E112]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DANIEL L. RITCHIE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 10, 2025

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Daniel L. Ritchie, a true friend and towering figure in Colorado's 
civic and educational landscape.
  A man of humility, integrity, and vision, Dan Ritchie left an 
indelible mark on the University of Denver, the Denver Center for the 
Performing Arts, and countless other institutions that he supported 
with his generosity and leadership.
  Born in China Grove, North Carolina, Dan Ritchie was a man of 
extraordinary drive and intellect. He earned degrees from Harvard 
University, beginning a career that spanned finance, broadcasting, and 
philanthropy. From his work as CEO of Westinghouse Broadcasting to his 
tenure as DU chancellor, he brought a steady hand and a keen strategic 
mind to every challenge he faced.
  When Dan became chancellor of DU in 1989, the institution was in 
financial peril. Through bold action and personal sacrifice--selling 
his own ranch to bolster fundraising efforts--he transformed DU into a 
world-class university, expanding its academic programs, growing its 
endowment, and elevating its national reputation. His leadership made 
DU a hub of excellence, where students and faculty could thrive in a 
reinvigorated learning environment.
  Beyond the university, Dan Ritchie extended his vision to the broader 
Denver community. As chairman of the Denver Center for the Performing 
Arts, he guided the organization through turbulent financial times, 
ensuring that future generations could experience the transformative 
power of live theater. His commitment to early childhood education 
through the Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation and his work with the Daniels 
Fund further reflected his deep belief in the power of education to 
change lives.
  Despite his many accomplishments and accolades, Dan Ritchie never 
sought the spotlight. He lived by a simple yet profound code--his 
`cowboy ethics'--which emphasized courage, fairness, and an unwavering 
commitment to one's community. He led not for recognition, but for the 
betterment of those around him. He was a friend and mentor to 
generations of civic leaders--always with an open door and wisdom to 
share.
  As we remember Daniel L. Ritchie, let us not only celebrate his 
remarkable achievements but also carry forward his example. Let us be 
inspired by his generosity, his unwavering dedication to education and 
the arts, and his belief that each of us has a role to play in 
improving our communities. Colorado has lost a great leader, but his 
legacy will endure through the institutions he strengthened and the 
countless lives he touched.
  I extend my deepest condolences to Dan's family and friends. May he 
rest in peace.

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