Club President comments on the death of Austin Kiplinger, Fourth Estate Award winner

The following statement is by John Hughes, President of the National Press Club, on the passing of Austin Kiplinger:

"The National Press Club was saddened today to hear the news that Austin Kiplinger, one of our most prominent members and a dear friend of the National Press Club for many years, had passed away at age 97.

"Mr. Kiplinger was a gentleman in every respect. He was a welcome, jovial, and valued guest at major Press Club social gatherings. His friends were legion. His wit and charm ever present.

"In 2005, Mr. Kiplinger received the Club's highest honor, the Fourth Estate Award, given to leading journalists from Walter Cronkite to Bob Woodward. We recognized his valuable and outstanding contribution to journalism that fall at a gala dinner.

"Many journalists got their start at Kiplinger and made their careers there. Others went on to practice journalism across town or around the world after learning their skills at Kiplinger. Austin Kiplinger's employees have served with distinction in key leadership positions in our Club including as President.

"Austin Kiplinger was a generous man in every respect. His philanthropy can be found in many good causes in Washington. We are grateful for his continued support of our non-profit arm, the National Press Club Journalism Institute.

"A giant in the Washington journalism and business community, Austin Kiplinger will be missed by many. We at the Press Club will miss his leadership and his good fellowship."