In Memoriam: David Ruder, MFDF Founding Chairman and Former SEC Chairman

The MFDF wishes to honor the memory of its founding Chairman David S. Ruder who passed away in Chicago on February 15, 2020 at age 90.  David served as the Forum’s chairman from 2002-2010 and was renowned in the securities legal and academic world for more than three decades. David was also chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The SEC in a statement remarked: “Chairman Ruder left the Commission in 1989 yet his presence has remained tangible for over 30 years. Notably, those who served with him often remark on his intelligence, candor and love for the Commission. ... David set a fair and effective path for future generations that has stood the test of time.” David also served as the Dean of the law school at Northwestern University from 1977-1985 and held significant oversight roles with the Financial Accounting Foundation and the Board of Governors of the National Association of Securities Dealers, among many other industry organizations.  The MFDF considers it a privilege to have been led and influenced by David’s thoughtful vision. An obituary for David from Northwestern University more fully capturesDavid’s contributions to the industry and to his family.