- Class: 1934
Charles Percy ’34: A major figure in mid-20th-century American politics, Charles Harting "Chuck" Percy was a moderate Republican from Illinois who served in the U.S. Senate for 18 years.
Business Career: Before entering politics, he was a "boy wonder" in business. He became president of the Bell & Howell Corporation at age 29, significantly expanding its revenue and global reach.
Senate Career (1967–1985): Percy defeated incumbent Paul Douglas in 1966 and served three terms. He was a leading "Rockefeller Republican" known for his moderate views, emphasizing social liberalism and fiscal conservatism. He was mentioned as a Republican presidential hopeful from 1968 through 1988. During his Senate career, Percy concentrated on business and foreign relations.
Foreign Relations: He chaired the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee from 1981 to 1985, focusing on international trade and human rights.
Personal Tragedy: His 1966 campaign was marred by the brutal, unsolved murder of his 21-year-old daughter, Valerie Percy, in their family home.
Judicial Legacy: He is credited with professionalizing the nomination of federal judges, recommending John Paul Stevens to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Death: He died on September 17, 2011, at age 91, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
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