(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman released the following statements regarding the passing of Gerald A. Lamb, who served as Connecticut State Treasurer from 1963 to 1970, becoming the first African American in the nation elected to that position and the first in Connecticut elected to a statewide office.  Following his tenure as Treasurer, he served as Banking Commissioner.

Governor Malloy said, “Gerald Lamb was very active in community affairs, having served in several leadership positions both in his native city of Waterbury and with the State of Connecticut.  He broke barriers not only in our state, but also in our nation at a time when civil rights were being heavily debated in communities across the country.  Our condolences go out to his family and friends.”

Lt. Governor Wyman said, “Throughout our history, Connecticut has been made stronger by the work of so many men and women whose vision and integrity shifted our culture, broke barriers, and instilled the importance of public service.  Gerald Lamb was one of those men.  We are grateful for his service to the people of Connecticut, and for his leadership that helped make us a stronger and more diverse state and nation.  My thoughts are with his family and friends during this sad time.”