President Jimmy Carter holds a press conference at Canisius University ahead of his March 16, 1993 keynote address for the William H. Fitzpatrick Chair of Political Science Lecture Series.
Buffalo, NY - As the nation mourns the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, Canisius University is reflecting on his memorable visit to campus three decades prior, which showcased the humanitarian spirit that will forever define the legacy of the 39th president.
Speaking to an audience of approximately 1,500 at the Richard E. Winter '42 Student Center, President Carter delivered a keynote address in March 1993 for the William H. Fitzpatrick Chair of Political Science Lecture Series.
The former president opened his remarks recalling "that the first crisis [he] faced as president was a horrible storm that affected Buffalo" back in January of 1977. President Carter's address then focused on what he saw as society's most pressing challenges: poverty, illiteracy and drug abuse.
During his address, President Carter detailed the work of his Atlanta-based Carter Center, highlighting several of its key initiatives including the coordination of childhood immunization programs worldwide and combating hunger by teaching small farmers how to elevate their food production techniques. The former president also described the Center's unique role in conflict resolution, noting that while official diplomatic channels often cannot engage with revolutionary groups, the Carter Center "could facilitate negotiations between opposing factions."
President Carter's lecture exemplified his lifelong commitment to public service and humanitarian work, which extended well beyond his presidency.
President Carter died on December 29, 2024. He was 100.
