Statement on the death of Mike Hughes

“Mike Hughes was a colleague, mentor, counselor, partner and friend to so many in Richmond and beyond. The name Mike Hughes is as iconic in our city as the James River or Monument Avenue.

“His legacy is enormous and enduring. Its greatest measure is not ads created nor brands advanced, but lives touched and dreams made. Among the countless people he inspired are generations of students at Virginia Commonwealth University. We are grateful that his extraordinary vision shaped our nationally renowned VCU Brandcenter, and that his great name adorns its beautiful home. He helped lead the Brandcenter since its inception in 1996, including serving as chairman emeritus of its Advisory Board. His wisdom, guidance and persistence helped VCU Brandcenter become the nation’s gold standard for graduate education in advertising and a vital part of a premier urban public research university.

“We will always miss Mike, his relentless courage, his quick wit, his passion for people and his transformative and visionary leadership. And we will always be grateful for the powerful, remarkable and enduring legacy he gave us all.”

Michael Rao, Ph.D.
President
Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Health System

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