UB Remembers Helen Delich Bentley
August 6, 2016
Contact: University Relations
Phone: 410.837.5739
The University of Baltimore expresses its condolences to family and friends of Helen Delich Bentley, a legendary public servant and a great friend to our institution. Rep. Bentley strongly supported the University in many ways over the years, including her establishment of a fund dedicated to students who showed interest in studying the Port of Baltimore. Indeed, she was passionate about all kinds of learning, often visiting campus and meeting with students, faculty and alumni. Consistently, the topic of discussion was how she could help people do better—in business and professional endeavors, in overcoming challenges, and in making Maryland a wonderful place to live and work.
In 1996, her papers, covering the entire span of her career from Baltimore Sun reporter to five terms in Congress and her gubernatorial candidacy, were donated to the University. They now reside in Langsdale Library's Special Collections Department. In 1999, the University of Baltimore presented Rep. Bentley with an honorary degree. She also served on our Law Advisory Council, and in November 2014 the University held a public screening of Baltimore—Port of Opportunity, a documentary film with which she was closely involved. Helen will be greatly missed. She was one of a kind.
UB President Kurt Schmoke said: “Helen Bentley will be remembered as a dedicated, passionate public servant who consistently put people first. From her landmark efforts to strengthen the Port of Baltimore, to her strong support for local institutions such as the University of Baltimore, Helen understood that it's people who bring greatness to a city, a state and a nation. We'll miss her deeply, and we'll look to our future leaders to build upon her unique style of kindness and tenacity.”
Ann Cotten, director of the University's Schaefer Center for Public Policy, said: "Helen Bentley was a trailblazer for women in politics. Her vigorous support and advocacy have been a driving force behind the success of the Port of Baltimore. She will be missed."