It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our founder, Ivan Hodáč, a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather. He was doing something he loved right up until the end.
Ivan truly was the heart and soul of Aspen Institute Central Europe. He founded the organization, served as President of the Board of Directors, and later chaired the Supervisory Board. Thanks to his vision, Central European Aspen grew from a small idea into one of the region’s most respected platforms for democratic dialogue and values-based leadership. He was always present at events and conferences, and loved meeting with young leaders generously sharing his time, advice, and encouragement. Over the years, he directly touched the lives of more than 600 young leaders across Central Europe.
“No one can imagine Aspen Institute in Central Europe without Ivan,” said Tomáš Klvaňa, Executive Director of Aspen Institute CE. “He was there from the very beginning. He took part in nearly every one of our programs for young leaders, and became the heart and driving force of the Institute, as well as a mentor and a dear friend to so many of us. His place in our community is irreplaceable.”
Outside of Aspen, Ivan had a remarkable career in Brussels. As Secretary-General of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) from 2001 to 2013, he became one of the most influential people in European policymaking and was named by the Financial Times as one of Brussels’ most influential personalities. He advised the European Commission on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, worked with the Czech Government on European affairs, and earlier led Time Warner’s corporate office for Europe.
“Ivan was an inspiring man, full of energy, love of life, and he had a genuine interest in the development of the Czech Republic and all of Central Europe,” shared Pavel Řehák, President of Aspen Institute CE. “It was an honor to build and grow Aspen in Central Europe alongside him, and to know him not only as a leader with a wealth of experience, which he loved to share with rising generations, but above all as a man with a big heart, tremendous energy, and a rare gift for bringing people together. He leaves behind an enormous legacy, a tangible impact, and countless people who were inspired simply by having worked with him, or by having crossed paths with him in life.”
“We have lost an extraordinary man who devoted his entire life to the Czech Republic,” said Dita Charanzová, Vice President of Aspen Institute CE. “Ivan was one of our country’s most prominent faces in Brussels, and few people have done as much for the Czech Republic as he did. For me, the way Ivan approached life, giving everything he did his full heart, made him an incredibly inspiring person, a role model, and a friend. He will be deeply missed.“
“We are all devastated here in Poland. We have lost a genuine friend, a true European citizen, driven to build civil society,” said Tomasz Wardyński, a friend and co-founder of the Warsaw Office of the Aspen Institute CE. “A personal friend with whom every moment spent was a pleasure. A companion in joyful ventures and a partner in meaningful discussions. A man of wisdom and integrity. He will be deeply missed.“
In the hours since the news broke, many other members of the Aspen community have shared their own memories of Ivan.
“I always felt he lived more than one lifetime. He was a role model to many of us, and I am so grateful he brought this amazing community together.” — Aneta Hanus
“He left a huge footprint in the world, and in this community too.” — Kateřina Polanská
“A true European.” — Hubert Czyżewski
“He will be remembered as a great man with a huge impact, and for the beautiful thoughts he so generously shared with the younger generations.” — Zsofia Szlamka
“The first time I met Ivan, I was at a career and life crossroads. He was so kind that he spent almost an hour with me, talking everything over. Thanks to him, I made what later turned out to be the best decision of my life.” — Petr Roháček
Our thoughts are with Ivan’s family, friends, and the wide Aspen community he built with such generosity. He will be deeply missed, and always remembered.
Rest in peace, Ivan.
The Board of Directors and the Team of Aspen Institute CE
