Watson Coleman Statement on the Death of Ruth B. Mandel

Ewing, NJ (April 12, 2020) — Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) issued the following statement on the passing of Ruth B. Mandel, a strong and passionate voice for women in elected office:

“When we count the leaders who helped bring us to a place where it’s not outlandish for a woman to be elected as a mayor, a congresswoman, a governor or any other office, Ruth will be listed among them, both in New Jersey and nationwide. Her life’s story is one of overcoming — escaping the Holocaust, achieving feats in higher education unlikely for a woman in her time, and helping to found what would became a nationally-recognized institution for understanding the potential and power of women in office, the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.

“Ruth was at the forefront of shaping the kind of civic engagement and leadership that would help this nation live up to the ideals we associate with our founding – the principles of freedom, of equity and representation for all. She did so across boundaries of party, religion, race and background, and we are all better for it. I pray for the strength and comfort of her family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss.”