Delano Lewis

Delano Lewis is an American attorney, businessman, and diplomat. He served as the United States Ambassador to South Africa from 1999 to 2001, appointed by President Bill Clinton. Prior to his ambassadorship, Lewis had a distinguished career in law, business, and public service, including a tenure as the President and Chief Executive Officer of National Public Radio (NPR) from 1993 to 1998.

Early Life and Education

Delano Lewis was born on November 12, 1938, in Arkansas City, Kansas. He attended Sumner High School and later pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Kansas, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History in 1960. He then attended Washburn University School of Law, earning his Juris Doctor in 1963.

Career

After law school, Lewis began his career as an attorney in the United States Department of Justice and then in the Office of Compliance in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He later moved to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), where he served as a Chief of the Equal Employment Opportunity Division.

In 1973, Lewis transitioned to the private sector, joining C&P Telephone, a subsidiary of Bell Atlantic, now known as Verizon Communications. He held various positions in the company, eventually becoming the President and CEO in 1990.

In 1993, Lewis was appointed as the President and CEO of National Public Radio (NPR), where he served until 1998. During his tenure, he led the organization through a period of significant growth and expansion.

In 1999, President Bill Clinton appointed Lewis as the United States Ambassador to South Africa, a position he held until 2001. As ambassador, he played a crucial role in strengthening the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Personal Life

Lewis is married to Gayle Carolyn Jones and they have four sons. He is also a member of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.

See Also

• List of ambassadors of the United States
• National Public Radio
• South Africa–United States relations