Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Mayo Clinic has issued a statement concerning the passing of pioneering female journalist and Mayo Board of Trustees member Cokie Roberts.

Roberts, who passed away Tuesday at age 75 after battling cancer, joined the Mayo Board of Trustees in 2016.  Mayo CEO and President Dr. Gianrico Farrugia had this response after her family announced that she had died.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing earlier today of our dear friend and Mayo Clinic Board of Trustees member, Cokie Roberts. We are grateful we had the honor and pleasure of working with Cokie. She exemplified integrity and compassion.

One of America's pioneering female journalists, Cokie had a passion for history and deep admiration for the Sisters of Saint Francis. During her keynote speech at joint commencement of Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine and Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in May, 2018, she said, 'Oh yes, I know all about the marvelous Mayo brothers and their remarkable father … but if it hadn't been for a pushy nun who wouldn't take 'No' for an answer, Saint Marys Hospital would never have been built, and what became known as Mayo Clinic might not have ever existed.'

Many things will be written and recalled in the coming days about Cokie's remarkable career and amazing life, but most importantly, great leaders leave their mark on humanity. We are all better for having known Cokie."

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