Cook County commissioners yesterday honored Michael Scott, the Chicago Board of Education president who is suspected of committing suicide early this week.
Those who knew him gave tribute to the man they recalled as a dedicated public servant and a role model.
Scott “never forgot the West Side,” said Commissioner William Beavers. Though he served under four mayors and was a proud West Sider, “The people he really served were the people of Chicago.”
Commissioner John Daley called him “a kind man and a loyal friend.”
“As close to perfection as a public servant as anyone I’ve ever seen or ever known” is how Commissioner Forrest Claypool described Scott.
Commissioner Robert Steele called him a brother.
“Michael was the ultimate mentor for anyone in my community,” he said.
The most moving tribute was given by Commissioner Earlean Collins, who left the chambers fighting back tears.
“Michael was one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. He’s met challenges, most of which were the investigations and problems we talked about. …
“He convinced me he was confident that everything was going to be all right. I just don’t believe that Michael was the kind of coward who would shoot himself in the head and then drown himself. It makes no sense to me,” said Collins, who broke down in the middle of her speech.
While the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has called Scott’s death a suicide, a cadre of ministers today called for further investigation. Steele told reporters at the county board meeting that Scott’s family is not convinced he died by his own hand. Mayor Richard M. Daley today defended the Chicago Police Department’s decision to continue investigating the incident.
Recalled by many as the consummate public servant, Scott’s real estate dealings were called out this summer, and his use of a business credit card is under investigation.