President's statement on the passing of Brian Hughes

A statement from Dr. Merodie Hancock, president, Thomas Edison State University, concerning longtime Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes, who died this morning at 68.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes, B.A. ’00, A.A. ’92, a devoted public servant whose commitment to our community was matched only by his support of education and opportunity for all.”

“A proud graduate of TESU, throughout his 20 years of leadership, Brian was a champion of accessible higher education and an advocate for our University. He understood how transfer credits and leveraging credit for prior learning could result in a degree later in life. He consistently fostered an environment where education, innovation and public service could thrive. His belief in our mission—and in the students we serve—helped strengthen both our institution and the region.”

“On behalf of the entire TESU community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the progress he made possible.”