WASHINGTON — Heritage Foundation President Kay C. James issued the following statement on the death of Helen Krieble: 

“The Heritage family was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Helen Krieble. She was a selfless human being and an incredibly imaginative policy innovator, businesswoman, mentor, and leader.  

 

“She dedicated much of her life to preserving America’s founding principles, and through her work as an educator, philanthropist, and policy expert, she always strove to uphold the values that made America the exceptional nation it is. 

 

“Helen understood the importance of free-market economics and education. She was also a leader in the national debate on illegal immigration and became a highly sought-after speaker on the issue, including at congressional forums and hearings, the prestigious Heritage Lecture, the Conservative Political Action Conference, and the Institute of the Americas.  

 

“Helen co-founded and ran the Vernon K. Krieble Foundation in honor of her grandfather. The foundation funded many public policy programs and partnered with likeminded organizations, including The Heritage Foundation, which the foundation has generously supported for more than three decades.  

 

“Helen left a tremendous legacy to America and to the conservative movement, and she will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with those who have lost such a dear friend and relative.”