The 48th Governor of New Jersey, a Republican who led the 9/11 Commission, is most known for investigating the 2001 terrorist attacks and shaping US counterterrorism policy. He's also a university president and politician.
Thomas Kean is best known for his role as the 48th Governor of New Jersey, serving from 1982 to 1990, and later as the Chairman of the 9/11 Commission, leading the investigation into the September 11 attacks. Throughout his career, Kean has been a dedicated public servant, educator, and statesman, leaving a lasting impact on the state of New Jersey and the nation.
Thomas Howard Kean was born on April 21, 1935, in New York City to a family of Dutch Americans and New Jersey politicians. His father, Robert Kean, was a U.S. Representative, and his grandfather, Hamilton Fish Kean, was a U.S. Senator. Kean comes from a long line of public servants, including his great-uncle John Kean, who also served as a U.S. Senator, and his second great-uncle, Hamilton Fish, a U.S. Senator, Governor of New York, and U.S. Secretary of State.
Kean graduated from Princeton University and later earned a master's degree from Teachers College at Columbia University. He began his career as a history teacher before entering politics, serving in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1968 to 1978. During his time in the Assembly, Kean held the role of Speaker of the Assembly from 1972 to 1973.
In 1981, Kean was elected Governor of New Jersey, a position he held until 1990. During his two terms, Kean was known for his moderate Republican stance and his efforts to promote New Jersey tourism. He was reelected in 1985, solidifying his position as a popular governor.
After leaving office, Kean served as President of Drew University from 1990 to 2005. In 2002, he was appointed by President George W. Bush as Chairman of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, also known as the 9/11 Commission. The commission's report, released in 2004, provided a comprehensive investigation into the September 11 attacks.
Thomas Kean's legacy is marked by his dedication to public service, education, and leadership. He has been recognized for his efforts to promote New Jersey tourism and his role in shaping the state's identity. As Chairman of the 9/11 Commission, Kean played a crucial role in understanding the events leading up to the attacks and providing recommendations to prevent future attacks.
Kean is married and has three children, including U.S. Representative Thomas Kean Jr. He is a member of the Kean family, a prominent family in New Jersey politics.
"The 9/11 Commission's work was not about assigning blame, but about understanding what went wrong and how to prevent it from happening again."
In conclusion, Thomas Kean's life and career are a testament to his commitment to public service, education, and leadership. His legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of leaders.
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