During the darkest days of America’s urban crisis, David foresaw New York’s renaissance. He dedicated himself to mobilizing the collective resources of business, government, labor, and the civic sector, to make this the great world city that it is today. He inspired generations of individual and corporate philanthropists to invest in the city and its great institutions. He worked to ensure that New York would remain an inclusive and open city, welcoming immigrants and sustaining a strong middle class. He led initiatives to build stronger neighborhoods, better schools, a vibrant public transportation system and a more diverse economy. His first job—as an assistant to Mayor LaGuardia—gave him a granular knowledge of the five boroughs that he applied throughout his life. The Partnership’s David Rockefeller Fellows Program, which prepares business executives to expand their civic contributions to New York, is a permanent tribute to his legacy. We also thank the New York State Senate for their resolution mourning the death of David Rockefeller; their warm remembrance further concretizes David Rockefeller matchless contribution to our city and state.
His imprint on the city will never be forgotten.