WASHINGTON, D.C. - We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. John B. Tsu. The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and the President?s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders extend our deepest condolences to Mrs. Susan Tsu and the Tsu family.

Dr. Tsu dedicated his entire life to the cause of education, public service and was a pioneer in increasing Asian participation in mainstream American politics at the national, state, and local levels. He was affiliated with Asian American studies programs at several universities including Seaton Hall, the University of San Francisco, and the John F. Kennedy University and was a leading advocate for the teaching of Asian languages in public schools. Dr. Tsu was admired and respected by both Republicans and Democrats for his leadership and his dedication to the communities where he lived, as well as the entire Asian American and Pacific Islander population. Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Tsu traveled around the country and the world to personally work on Asian American issues. He earned trust and good will from those he came in contact with and became a role model to the AAPI community.

"I was saddened to receive news of Dr. Tsu?s passing," said Betty Wu, Chair of the President?s Advisory Commission. "Dr. Tsu touched the lives of countless Asian Americans, helping each one to achieve success. It is an honor to follow him as Chair of the President?s Advisory Commission."

Eddy Badrina, Executive Director of the White House Initiative said, "He was a tireless public servant who participated in the political and public arenas not for his own benefit, but for the common good of his fellow Asian Pacific Americans. He will truly be missed."

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.