WASHINGTON — Today, League of Women Voters of the United States President Dianna Wynn and CEO Celina Stewart issued the following statement honoring the life and legacy of former LWVUS President Ruth Jean Gordon Hinerfeld: 

“Ruth Hinerfeld represented the very best of the League of Women Voters and of public service. Her leadership reflected a deep belief in the power of informed participation, principled engagement, and the responsibility each generation carries to strengthen democracy for the next. 

“During her decades of service to the League, including as LWVUS president from 1978 to 1982, Ruth helped guide the organization through a defining moment in our history. Her presidency coincided with the League’s sponsorship of the landmark 1980 presidential debates, including the historic general election debate between President Jimmy Carter and Governor Ronald Reagan, during which Ruth played a central role in overseeing debate questions and process. Through this work, she reinforced the League’s role as a trusted, nonpartisan voice for voters and a national leader in voter education, fairness, and public accountability. 

“Ruth’s legacy continues to live on through the work of Leagues across the country and through the generations of leaders she helped inspire and mentor. We are profoundly grateful for her extraordinary contributions to the League and to our democracy. 

“We extend our deepest condolences to Ruth’s family, friends, loved ones, and all members of the League community mourning this loss alongside us.”