Sad News About Larry Rasky ’78

Dear Emerson community,

The College is very saddened to learn that Larry Rasky, Emerson alumnus and Trustee Emeritus, died this morning. Following is a link to a Boston Globe story: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/03/22/metro/boston-pr-pro-biden-confidante-larry-rasky-has-died/. 

Many of you may remember Larry as a very engaged member of the College’s Board of Trustees who championed Emerson’s public relations and branding efforts. Larry graduated from Emerson with a Communications degree in 1978. He was a devoted alumnus and Trustee whose many contributions to Emerson have left an important and lasting impact on the College’s reputation as a leading institution of higher education in the liberal arts, communication and the arts.

He was a great friend to the College as well as to many faculty, staff and students. He represented Emerson at its very best and he understood profoundly and personally the power of the creative arts, communication and liberal arts to shape societies and empower people. He was a distinguished and great citizen of Boston whose influence in business, government and the not-for-profit sectors was extraordinary. His legacy at Emerson, Boston and beyond will endure.

Before launching the eponymous and highly regarded public relations and public affairs firm, Rasky Partners, Larry led communications for several high profile campaigns.  He served as press secretary for Joseph Biden’s 1988 presidential bid, as communications director for John Kerry’s first Senate campaign, and as deputy press secretary for President Jimmy Carter’s re-election campaign.

We will share additional information with the community as soon as we are able. Please keep Larry’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. 

Sincerely,
Lee Pelton