​Statement from Ohio State University President Michael V. Drake on the passing of John Glenn

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State University President Michael V. Drake issued the following statement upon the passing of John Glenn.

“The Ohio State University community deeply mourns the loss of John Glenn, Ohio’s consummate public servant and a true American hero. He leaves an undiminished legacy as one of the great people of our time.

“Senator Glenn was a decorated U.S. Marine aviator, legendary NASA astronaut, tireless public servant, and an unparalleled supporter of The John Glenn College of Public Affairs at Ohio State, where he served actively as an adjunct professor until just recently. He was an authentic hero whose courage, integrity, sacrifice and achievements inspired people, young and old, around the world.

“Most importantly, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He and his wife, Annie, have been the definition of model citizens. Meeting them was among life’s greatest privileges. Spending time with them was a blessing.

“On behalf of the Ohio State community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Annie and the entire Glenn family.”

The John Glenn College of Public Affairs’ history dates back to 1969 with the start of the Division of Public Administration at Ohio State. In 1998, Sen. John Glenn founded the John Glenn Institute for Public Service and Public Policy, which merged with the School of Public Policy & Management (formally the Division of Public Administration) in 2006, creating the John Glenn School of Public Affairs. The school became the university's 15th college in 2015.

In 2009, Glenn gave the keynote address at spring commencement and became one of only a few, select non-band members to dot the “i” in Script Ohio. In 2015, Ohio State renamed 17th Avenue Annie and John Glenn Avenue.

He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Further details about arrangements and an on-campus remembrance service are forthcoming.