Miami University of Ohio President David C. Hodge answered questions from The Washington Times’ Cory Brown this week about the selection of Miami alum Paul Ryan as GOP nominee Mitt Romney’s running mate:
Q. What does this vice presidential pick mean for Miami University?
A. Having Rep. Ryan as the VP pick brings much greater visibility to Miami. Whatever one thinks of his specific policies, there is pretty universal agreement that he is an intelligent, articulate person of conviction. Those qualities align well with Miami’s values and sense of self. It is great to see that more people will become aware of Miami and those qualities.
Q. How do you think Miami University prepared Paul Ryan for his career and how did Miami shape his political and economic philosophy?
A. By all accounts, Rep Ryan came to Miami with his core views already grounded. What he found here was the chance to interact with faculty, especially [Economics Professor Rich] Hart, in a way that stretched and sharpened those views. He also had many opportunities to practice those “soft-skills” that have made him such an effective communicator and collaborator. The emphasis on developing the whole person and a full range of skills served him well, just as we strive to do for our current students.
Q. What was your first reaction when you heard that it was Paul Ryan?
A. Excitement! I am always proud of our alumni who move into important positions and, as I noted above, his character stands out in a way that can make all Miamians, regardless of their political affiliation, proud of him as well.
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