In Memory of Eugene Sekulow (1931-2021)

Dr. Eugene Sekulow, Trustee and former Co-Chairman of the Board of the American-German Institute at Johns Hopkins University, passed away on April 26, 2021.

Gene was affiliated with AGI for over three decades. His commitment to the mission of the Institute was an example of his constant engagement in furthering the dialogue between Germany and the United States. Gene brought the skills of a scholar and teacher, having honed his studies at Johns Hopkins University (A&S ’53, MA ’54, PhD ’60), where he taught for several years before entering the private sector. His interest in the work and products of AGI was extensive and his participation in its programs as well as with its research was always welcome and enriched our output.

During his business career in the telecommunications field, Gene was deeply involved in German-American relations, including through his leadership of the German-American Chamber of Commerce in New York.

As Co-Chairman of the AGI Board, together with Fred Langhammer from 2000 to 2012, Gene guided the work of AGI through challenging periods in German-American relations and consistently offered advice and encouragement. His generosity, wit, and inspiration were a constant source of motivation for his fellow Trustees and the staff. For his passion and enduring support of reconciliation between Germany and the United States, and for his leadership of AGI, Gene was awarded the Great Cross of Merit by the German government in 2006.

Gene’s pride in AGI was amplified through the Institute’s affiliation with his alma mater, Johns Hopkins University. The University presented Gene with a Certificate of Appreciation for his tireless work for AGI in 2012, and he was designated Chairman Emeritus by the AGI Board of Trustees.

We knew Gene as leader, mentor, and inspiration whose legacy will encourage us to continue the dialogue he so completely personified. He will be missed, but his memory will remain a lasting part of our Institute.