Other Statements

President Emeritus Gordon Guyer
"Peter McPherson represents the very best in leadership for a land-grant university, especially this land-grant university. The McPherson family name is synonymous with leadership at MSU. Peter has been a marvelous advocate, tireless manager, and an innovative man of ideas. His alma mater is a much better university because of him. We owe him a lot."

Board of Trustees Vice Chairperson Joel Ferguson
"When we were looking for a successor to Gordon Guyer, I was a visible and vocal advocate for the kind of person MSU needed and deserved at that point in our history. The kind of individual I described - not by name of course - was a 'Peter McPherson type.'

Not only did we get the right type, we got the right man, the perfect man for the job.

In the years since, not only have my hopes and expectations been met - they have been far exceeded.

Both Peter and I like history. History will show that this was not only a good era of leadership, it was a great era.

The president I said we needed was one who would bring proven managerial and administrative strength to leading MSU. I said we need a hard-working, 'get-things-done' kind of individual, one who knew the value of both the finish line and the bottom line. Let the record show I knew what I was talking about!

We all appreciate the long list of accomplishments, reflecting sound management and visionary leadership. But I honestly think Peter McPherson's presidency, like John Hannah's, will be even more appreciated, 10, 20, or 50 years later. Spartans yet unborn will benefit from his presidency."

MSU Athletics Director Ron Mason
"I admire Peter McPherson's leadership qualities. He was always very supportive of athletics and open to suggestion. Peter recognized the importance of integrating athletics into the academic experience at a Big Ten institution. He also took on a leadership role at the national level as a member of the Group of Six, formulating academic reform for the NCAA.

On a personal note, I got along with Peter very well, both as a coach and administrator. I also want to acknowledge Joanne McPherson for her loyal support over the years. Joanne is an avid Spartan fan, who regularly attended sporting events, not only on campus but also around the country. She definitely became part of our team."

MSU men's basketball coach Tom Izzo
"Peter McPherson has done an incredible job of helping Michigan State grow as a university. He leaves a legacy of major building projects and smaller aesthetic improvements that all add to the overall character of the institution. As a leader, he had the courage to step outside the box.

On a personal level, he pushed me to be the best. He demanded a lot, but he also gave a lot. Our relationship is one of great respect. I'm excited to see what he tackles next after a very successful tenure at Michigan State ."

MSU head football coach John L. Smith
"I wish Peter McPherson the best. Peter has done a great deal for this university over the last 11 years, gaining a national reputation as a strong educational leader. He's also been a tremendous supporter of athletics. I hate to see him go, but I know that he has some important things that he wishes to accomplish (before retirement)."