Arthur Hawthorne, Decorated Veteran and Former Chairman of the Societas Board, Dies at 84
MIAMI — Arthur Hawthorne, a decorated Vietnam War veteran and longtime chairman of the Societas Board, passed away on June 18 in Miami due to complications from heart surgery. He was 84.
Commanding in stature and formidable in intellect, Hawthorne devoted his life to public service, national unity, and institutional integrity. A recipient of the Medal of Honor for extraordinary valor during the Vietnam War, he returned home with visible scars and an unshakable sense of purpose. His post-war years reflected a relentless commitment to fostering dialogue, championing causes that transcended party lines, and guiding generations of leaders.
Hawthorne served as chairman of the Societas Board for over four decades, steering the organization through the administrations of seven U.S. presidents. Under his leadership, the board became a rare space where ideologies met with mutual respect, and vision prevailed over partisanship. Colleagues often noted that Arthur wasn’t just the center of the room—he was its moral compass.
His influence extended far beyond his formal titles. For 45 years, he cultivated enduring friendships and professional alliances across the political spectrum, mentoring rising leaders and advising world changers with the same steady hand.
He was a man of deep convictions, unshakable loyalty, and quiet warmth. Though imposing at first glance, those who knew him best spoke of his wit, his love of history and poetry, and the rare twinkle in his eye reserved for close friends and family.
Arthur Hawthorne leaves behind a world measurably different—and immeasurably better—because of his life. He is survived by his son Alexis Hawthorne and a nation grateful for his service.
Funeral arrangements are forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Veterans Recovery Foundation or the Societas Civic Leadership Fellowship.
