    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [June 29, 1999]
    [Page 1039]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Michael Hooker
    June 29, 1999

        I was saddened to learn of the death of University of North Carolina
    Chancellor Michael Hooker. Michael Hooker devoted his life to improving
    higher education, not only in North Carolina but all over America. As
    chancellor of UNC, he was committed to building the best educational and
    cultural climate for students, while deepening the university's
    commitment to North Carolina and its economic future. His devotion led
    him to visit every county in North Carolina to discuss new ways of
    developing educational opportunity, and to encourage more people to
    participate in the educational system. I am especially grateful for his
    role in helping Education Secretary Riley
    implement our America Reads challenge, which enlists college students as
    tutors to help elementary students learn to read.
        Michael Hooker represented the very best in our education system,
    and the very best in public service. He will be missed. Our thoughts and
    prayers are with his wife, Carmen, and his
    daughter and grandchildren.