Reginald Lee Weaver, a towering figure in American education and labor, passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 86. A lifelong advocate for public schools and the rights of educators, Weaver's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on both state and national educational policy. His dedication to ensuring quality education for all children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, defined his remarkable journey from the classroom to the presidency of the National Education Association.

Born in Danville, Illinois, on August 13, 1939, to Mary Alice Buchanan and Carl Weaver, Reginald's early life in segregated schools instilled in him a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized students. He graduated from Danville High School in 1957, laying the groundwork for a distinguished academic and professional path. Weaver pursued higher education with a clear vision, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in special education from Illinois State University in 1961. He furthered his studies at Roosevelt University, where he obtained a master's degree in 1971.

These academic achievements prepared him for a career that began in the classroom, teaching special education students in Harvey, Illinois, for over 30 years. His time as a teacher deeply informed his later advocacy, giving him firsthand insight into the realities of poverty and public education. He carried this empathy throughout his career, often personally assisting students in need by providing essentials like winter coats, meals, and school supplies. This grassroots dedication naturally led him into union leadership, starting as president of the Harvey Education Association from 1967 to 1971.

Weaver's ascent in state leadership was marked by resilience and strategic vision. After losing a 1973 election for president of the Illinois Education Association (IEA), he built a minority caucus to increase the representation of people of color in the union's Representative Assembly. His organizing efforts successfully built coalitions, culminating in his election as the first African American president of the IEA, where he served from 1981 to 1987. In this historic role, he spearheaded the crucial battle for collective bargaining rights for Illinois educators, leading to the passage of the Illinois Education Labor Relations Act in 1984.

His exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to educators propelled him to national prominence within the National Education Association (NEA). He served as NEA Vice President from 1996 to 2002 before being elected President of the NEA, a position he held for two terms until 2008. Under his stewardship, the NEA, the nation's largest professional employee organization, saw its membership grow to 3.2 million, solidifying its role as a powerful voice for public education. He became a recognized expert on federal education policy, frequently testifying before Congress and advocating for equitable school funding.

Beyond his national leadership, Reginald Weaver was a highly respected figure on the international stage. He served as Vice President of Education International (EI), a global federation representing nearly 30 million educators across 172 countries, joining its executive board in 2004. His international work underscored his belief in the universal right to quality education and his commitment to advocating for educators worldwide. In 2006, his global impact on democracy and education was uniquely recognized when a stone column was dedicated in his name at Lincoln Cathedral in England.

Throughout his illustrious career, Weaver received numerous accolades and honors, including honorary doctorates from Shaw University, South Carolina State University, and Lincoln University in the United Kingdom. He was consistently named one of the 100 Most Influential Black Americans by Ebony magazine, reflecting his broad cultural and societal impact. His legacy is further honored by the NEA's establishment of the Reg Weaver Human and Civil Rights Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes individuals and affiliates whose efforts address poverty's impact on students and promote economic opportunities for disadvantaged families.

Following his passing, major retrospectives published by the IEA and EI highlighted his enduring role as a trailblazer for collective bargaining rights and educational equity. NEA President Becky Pringle released a heartfelt tribute, calling Weaver a "guiding light, a visionary leader, a personal mentor" and an "irreplaceable friend." Education International General Secretary David Edwards praised Weaver's "incredible humanity," fondly recalling his dedication to recognizing and respecting support staff and janitorial teams during international events. Reginald Lee Weaver's vision for schools where children could learn free from intimidation, coupled with his tireless efforts to empower educators, will continue to inspire future generations. He will be remembered as a compassionate leader, a fierce advocate, and a true pioneer who dedicated his life to the betterment of society.