Ohio State mourns death of oldest alumnus

Zheng Ji dies at age 111

Ohio State mourns the passing of its oldest alumnus, Zheng Ji, who died in Nanjing, China, on July 29 at the age of 111. Considered China's pioneer in nutritional science and anti-aging biochemistry, Zheng was a professor at Nanjing University. He published his last book about maintaining good health two years ago.

Zheng graduated from Ohio State in 1931 with a master's degree in biochemistry. He received his Ph.D. from Indiana University.

President Gee and Zheng Ji - July 2, 2010

President E. Gordon Gee, who was in China earlier this summer, had the opportunity to meet Zheng. During their discussions, Zheng shared some of his Ohio State memories with Gee, including a copy of his diploma and a photograph of himself as a student.

"It was truly an honor to spend time with Professor Zheng," said President Gee. "He was a leader in shaping the world's understanding of the complex intersection of mind and body with genetics, nutrition, personal habits, and the natural environment. His innovative thinking and research are unlocking the mysteries of human health and well-being. All of us at The Ohio State University are enormously proud of his work and honored that he was an alumnus of our institution."

Zheng has been quoted as saying that "maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude and living in an active manner are the main factors of contributing to a long life."