All of us at AAI were deeply saddened to learn of Professor Wangari Maathai’s passing. Professor Maathai, one of our most distinguished alumni, was an extraordinary woman who will be remembered for, among other things, the contributions she made to the fights for poverty reduction, environmental conservation and women’s rights. We  are honored that our organization played a role in her life’s story: in the early 60’s she earned her master’s degree in biology from the University of Pittsburgh with an AAI-administered African Graduate Fellowship Program (AFGRAD) scholarship.  Professor Maathai will remain a shining example of what education, commitment and conviction can achieve. Our thoughts are with her family—especially her children—and close friends. May she rest in peace.