Jaime Benítez

Popular Democrat Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico

Congresses Served

January 1, 1908 (93 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 2001

Death

Puerto Rican politician, author, and academic known for his significant contributions to education and governance.
Longest-serving chancellor and first president of the University of Puerto Rico, overseeing a substantial increase in student enrollment.
Played a key role in the university’s development and attracted notable scholars and artists to the institution.
Involved in the drafting of Puerto Rico’s Constitution and the Bill of Rights, emphasizing social and economic rights.
Served as Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico in the U.S. House of Representatives, focusing on education and labor issues.
Advocated for Puerto Rico’s current political status, opposing both statehood and independence.
Published numerous works on education and the university system, contributing to academic discourse.
His legacy is honored through various institutions and initiatives, including a foundation established in his memory and several locations named after him.
Recognized for his influence on public health and education in Puerto Rico, particularly through the creation of the Medical Sciences campus.