Elson Floyd’s contribution to education will live on

There is a saying, “A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove, but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.” That says it all as we remember Elson Floyd, late president of Washington State University.

Not only was he a great leader for higher education, but he also modeled academic excellence for our younger students as they continued through elementary, middle, and high school. Three years ago, Academic Link Outreach, a Washington non-profit, had the pleasure of taking nine students from our Path to College Success program in Lynnwood to a sit down formal dinner at the president’s home. Those students, now seniors in high school, are still talking about that evening!

He shared WSU and the importance of pushing beyond high school for post-secondary training. He also listened to the students’ hopes and dreams. Since he had read about their success through the three year program focusing on academic achievement, he told them that each had a place at WSU. What more motivation would a student need for high school success?

Our hearts are saddened by his passing, but his memory and legacy will live on. Thank you, Elson Floyd, for your belief in academics and your belief that our Washington children are our greatest resource for tomorrow.

This story was originally published August 6, 2015 at 5:01 PM with the headline "Elson Floyd’s contribution to education will live on."