Home / 2023 / September / U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein

Statement by Chancellor Cynthia Larive on the passing of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein

September 29, 2023

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a towering figure in the history of both our state and nation. Senator Feinstein trailblazed a path for countless women in politics, working her way from the halls of San Francisco government to the Senate Chamber in the U.S. Capitol, all the while fighting on behalf of the underserved and overlooked. Senator Feinstein was a strong advocate for higher education in general and for the University of California specifically. Her steadfast support for higher education complemented the work done by her late husband, Richard Blum, a longtime member and former chair of the UC Board of Regents. Senator Feinstein was a compassionate, forthright and effective leader, and her positive impact undeniable and extraordinary. My condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. California and the country have lost a great leader.”