COLUMBUS -- “Higher education in Ohio has lost a true friend and supporter with the death today of former Gov. James A. Rhodes. Before my arrival in Columbus, I was familiar with Governor Rhodes’ legacy in strengthening and expanding Ohio’s public universities and community college system. The governor built an excellent foundation for higher education in Ohio, and was tremendously supportive of The Ohio State University. He understood early on that a strong state economy only comes from an educated work force.

“In my two and a half years here, Governor Rhodes was a real source of assistance, advice and encouragement. From him, I learned much about the state of Ohio, its history, its traditions, and its aspirations. Indeed, one of my fondest memories is of attending the Ohio State Fair with the governor and hearing first-hand of its importance to the state.

“He will be missed by the entire higher education community and most especially by all those associated with The Ohio State University.”

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