Gene and I worked in adjacent offices in Old Main. He was a wonderful colleague, generous mentor, and a valued friend. I learned a lot from him about Penn State and about higher education -- but more than anything, about being a decent person. I have so many fond memories of Gene. For example: Years ago, we were deep into a difficult and contentious meeting in Old Main. One committee member in particular had been getting carried away and was being especially argumentative. Many of us in the room had had enough., including Gene. But rather than further ramping things up, Gene waited for a pause, then quietly said something like, "Oh, now we're just being silly" -- no doubt followed by some lengthy and intellectual philosophical disquisition. But what I remember is the "we're being silly" idea. Anyhow, because Gene didn't necessarily try to win an argument, he was often a calm and thoughtful voice of reason. Maybe it was due in part to his Midwestern roots, but Gene had a humble vibe that I, and many others, respected so much. He was a terrific guy and a person of integrity and compassion. I'm so grateful to have had the chance to know him.