WASHINGTON-We mourn the passing of Reginald "Reg" Weaver-a transformative leader in the labor movement, devoted family man, man of faith, and tireless advocate for public education, civil rights, and social justice.

Weaver's leadership journey reflected a deep and enduring commitment to educators and working families. He served as president of the Illinois Education Association, where he built a strong foundation of advocacy and leadership that would carry forward to the national stage. He later rose to serve as president of the National Education Association from 2002 to 2008-the pinnacle of his career-while simultaneously serving as vice president of Education International, extending his influence to educators and unions around the world.

At the heart of his life's work was a profound love of teaching and a deep belief in the potential and growth of children and students. That passion spurred a lifelong commitment to advancing public education, strengthening the teaching profession, and ensuring that every student-regardless of background or circumstance-had the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. He championed the vision of 'Great Public Schools for Every Child'-a defining principle that shaped his leadership and continues to guide the movement he helped build.

In his leadership, Weaver brought moral clarity, global perspective, and unwavering purpose to the fight for educational equity and workers' rights. He was a powerful voice for educators and a steadfast champion of the labor movement, grounded in the belief that strong public schools and strong unions are essential to a thriving democracy.

Weaver understood that the struggle for quality public education is inseparable from the broader fight for civil rights and human dignity. He championed policies and partnerships that advanced racial and economic justice, always centering those most impacted and challenging systems that fell short of their promise. His leadership helped shape a more inclusive, more courageous movement-one rooted in both principle and action.

His impact extended well beyond his formal titles. Weaver was a proud member of the Freemasons and served on the boards of People For the American Way and the Tom Joyner Foundation, among others-bringing his voice, values, and vision to a wide range of efforts dedicated to expanding opportunity and advancing justice.

Beyond his public leadership, Weaver was known for his deep devotion to family, his abiding faith, and his ability to connect with people across differences. He mentored emerging leaders, built bridges across communities, and led with both conviction and compassion.

NEA President Becky Pringle called Weaver "a guiding light, a visionary leader, a personal mentor. The labor movement lost an unflappable advocate, and I lost an irreplaceable friend. As president of IEA, then NEA, Reg Weaver supported and inspired me for many years-he will have an impact on me, and many of us, for countless years to come."

Weaver's passing is a profound loss to the education community, the labor movement, and all who believe in justice, opportunity, and the transformative power of learning. Yet his legacy endures-in the educators he inspired, the movements he strengthened, and the countless lives he helped shape.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues across the country and around the world. In honoring Reginald "Reg" Weaver, we recommit ourselves to carrying forward the work he so passionately advanced: protecting public education, strengthening the labor movement, advancing civil rights, and building a more just and compassionate world.

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.