Chautauqua Institution President Michael E. Hill released the following statement regarding the passing of Bill Clinger, former U.S. congressman from Warren, longtime Chautauquan and 2000–06 chair of the Institution’s Board of Trustees:

“Bill Clinger was a towering figure in the life of our nation and of Chautauqua Institution. As an elected official, he served our neighbors in Warren County with tenacity and grace. Current and future public servants would do well to look to his example of moral leadership. At Chautauqua, Bill’s steady hand as chair guided the Institution through some difficult days and prepared it for the heights of mission fulfillment we’re striving toward and realizing today. My heart goes out to Bill’s children Bijou, Will, Jim and Julia, and I join our Chautauqua family and regional community in both mourning a great loss and celebrating an extraordinary legacy. I adored the man, felt lucky to call him my friend, and will miss him greatly.”