May 21, 1973

Messages from President Nixon, Governor Egan read at Commencement

Release date: 5/21/73

FAIRBANKS-- Messages from President Richard M. Nixon and Gov. Wiliam A. Egan paying tribute to retiring University of Alaska president Dr. William R. Wood were read at the 51st Commencement here Sunday.

The President wired Wood:

"It is a pleasure for me to join in honoring your distinguished career as president of the University of Alaska.

"Your long and dedicated service spans every province of American education.  As a public school teacher and administrator, as a university professor and president and as a dedicated public servant, you have fully used your wisdom and talents to enrich the lives of young Americans and to contribute to the progress of our nation.

"The University of Alaska has been a particularly fortunate beneficiary of your creative leadership and of your steadfast commitment to the finest traditions of our profession.

"I congratulate you on your enduring achievements, and I hope that the satisfaction you can rightfully derive from your own work will add to your happiness in your retirement."

Wrote Egan:

"Doctor Wood's accomplishments as the university's president during its most dramatic period of expansion will attest down through the years to his guiding presence.  As well as the addition of various facilities at Fairbanks, the expansion of university and community college campuses to cities and towns across Alaska will stand as a lasting monument to Doctor Wood as a bulider of the university.  I know all Alaskans join me in wishing him and his family the very best for the future."

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