Heritage Foundation Mourns Founder Edwin J. Feulner, Conservative Movement Pioneer Passes at 83

The Heritage Foundation is mourning the passing of its founder, Edwin J. Feulner, who died at the age of 83. His death was announced in a statement by Heritage President Kevin Roberts and Board Chairman Barb Van Andel-Gaby. They described Feulner as not only a leader but a visionary and a patriot of the highest order. Feulner established The Heritage Foundation in 1973, transforming it from a small Capitol Hill policy shop to a powerhouse of conservative ideas. His leadership helped shape the Reagan Revolution, with Heritage recognized by the New York Times as the “Parthenon of the conservative metropolis.”

Feulner's conservative journey began in Chicago after reading influential conservative texts that directed his life's work. He graduated from Regis University with degrees in English and business and later earned an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. He pursued further studies at Georgetown University and the London School of Economics, culminating in a doctorate from the University of Edinburgh.

In Washington, Feulner first affiliated with institutions such as the Center for Strategic Studies and Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He later served as a confidential assistant to Melvin Laird and chief of staff to Philip Crane before founding Heritage. During his presidency, Heritage made significant contributions to policy shaping and advocacy, notably through its “Mandate for Leadership” publication, which influenced the Reagan administration's policies.

Feulner is celebrated for championing "big-tent conservatism," a vision rooted in addition and multiplication rather than division and subtraction. His leadership was instrumental in convening the conservative movement, extending Heritage's influence nationwide. Feulner's optimism and mentoring inspired countless individuals, establishing institutions that are key players in conservative policy advocacy.

Feulner was an accomplished author with nine books, including notable works such as “The American Spirit” and “Getting America Right,” and was the publisher of Heritage’s Policy Review magazine. He co-founded and chaired Townhall.com, coordinating conservative online activities.

Feulner's legacy continues through numerous "Feulnerisms," memorable sayings reflecting his philosophical approach to policy and leadership. Notable among these is his mantra, “people are policy,” emphasizing the importance of nurturing future conservative leaders.

Following his retirement from the presidency, he remained active in Heritage's Board of Trustees, providing guidance and advice. The Foundation vows to carry forward his mission with courage, integrity, and determination, staying true to his charge: “Onward. Always.”

Feulner is survived by his wife, Linda, his children, and grandchildren. Heritage leaders extend their condolences to his family, honoring Feulner's remarkable life and profound impact on the conservative movement. Analysts predict that his legacy will continue to influence conservative policy and advocacy in the future, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in American conservatism.