Gordon Gee

“To be sure, American higher education is a diverse ecosystem, comprising institutions of all sizes, price tags, and mission statements.”

“I did not want to go anywhere where I would be interim.”

“I am not a scientist. I have never analyzed the far reaches of the solar system through the lens of a telescope nor scrutinized cancer cells under a microscope.”

“A truly great university is a nucleus of artistic expression. It fosters creative, critical thought, and serves as a platform for civil discourse.”

“The Ohio State University has a rich - if quiet - heritage of the arts.”

“When the fabric of the universe becomes unknown, it is the duty of the university to produce weavers.”

“I am trying to prioritize and keep everything in balance, which for me is not easy.”

“At least for me, I believe that one learns from one's mistakes. And I made significant mistakes, and I learned from them.”

“I joke that being a university president is akin to being a pinata. But there are also notions of redemption.”

“I often have said that to be a college president, you need a thick skin, a good sense of humor, and nerves like sewer pipes.”

“The universities of the 21st century are going to be the smokestacks of the century.”

“Sitting on a corporate board is a hobby for me.”

“I believe we have the best football coach in the country in Urban Meyer. I had the privilege of hiring him, as you know, and I think he is doing fabulous work.”

“If we make a difference in Ohio, we can make a difference on a national scale.”

“I simply take serious issues seriously, but I do not take myself seriously.”

“I got all sorts of great Nebraska jokes.”

“I tend to deal with most issues with humor... always have and always will.”

“Intellectual curiosity drove Einstein to some of the world's most important discoveries.”

“Founded when Abraham Lincoln believed education could lead the nation out of its darkest days, Ohio State now provides a powerful platform of interdisciplinary academic programs, world-class scholars, outstanding students, and extensive research capabilities.”

“I've been president of Brown and chancellor of Vanderbilt, where they have very high completion rates.”