Farewell, Eugene Levy
It is difficult to imagine Rice without the influence of Provost Eugene Levy (see story, page 1). Once upon a time, Rice students were notoriously wary of venturing beyond the hedges. Then Levy fronted the Passport to Houston program, which began in 2005, and the city's doors were thrown open. Likewise, when President David Leebron arrived on campus, his Vision for the Second Century was nowhere near the fleshed-out agenda it now represents. It was with Levy's backing that a pair of new colleges and an increased student body now call Rice home.Levy's influence has been heavy over the last decade, and it is readily apparent to see that the programs and ideas he has pushed have reaped dividends for both students and faculty. His presence was always behind the scenes - most mistook him for the eponymous star of American Pie - but without him, Rice would be nowhere near the leading institution it is today. After a decade's worth of work, Levy deserves this upcoming sabbatical as much as anyone. He will be missed over the next year, but we hope he finds the relaxation and revitalization his work merits.
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