Yesterday, we had a lot to celebrate in Pullman, including a fantastic win by our Husky Football team. But what really warmed my heart on that cold, wet, snowy day were the ways our state came together. We’re grateful to the first responders and people of George and Moses Lake for feeding and caring for our band and spirit squad after a bus crash that thankfully caused no life-threatening injuries. And UW supporters everywhere were moved by the WSU Marching Band playing “Bow Down to Washington” during pre-game festivities since our band couldn’t complete its trip to the Apple Cup. Thank you to everyone for their support for our students and staff during a traumatic time.
I’m also proud that, even in the midst of our storied and spirited rivalry on the field, the UW and WSU are united in our vision for affordable public higher education in Washington. During the pre-game reception, Lt. Governor Cyrus Habib delivered a fabulous speech about the value of higher education to individuals and communities. He clearly articulated what WSU President Kirk Schulz and I want everyone in Washington to know, which is that it’s possible for students of modest means to attain a college degree at our state’s public colleges and universities. And not only is it possible, it’s vital to their personal success and to the success of our state.
I also want to thank Constance Rice and Ron Sims, the chairs of our respective boards of regents, and their fellow regents for their leadership of our universities as we carry our shared public mission. And Congressman Dan Newhouse and his daughter Jensena, both huge WSU fans, were so kind to bring both well-wishes and a gift of Washington bubbly beautifully decorated in purple and gold.
You can’t make purple without red, and yesterday demonstrated that competition and cooperation can go hand in hand. We truly are stronger together.
