This Presidents Day, the Ford School is taking a moment to reflect on the life and legacy of our namesake, 38th U.S. President Gerald R. Ford. His story in many respects embodies the Ford School’s commitment to public service.

A lifelong Michigander from Grand Rapids, President Ford attended the University of Michigan and led the school’s football team to two undefeated seasons culminating in national titles.

After completing his degree at Michigan and receiving his juris doctor from Yale, Ford enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve in the wake of Pearl Harbor and served in the war’s Pacific Theater. Upon his return home, he married fellow Grand Rapids native Elizabeth “Betty” Bloomer, with whom he would raise four children.

In 1948, Ford was elected to represent West Michigan’s fifth congressional district in the United States House of Representatives, going on to hold the seat for twenty-five years. His tenure in Congress saw him serve on the Warren Commission in the wake of the Kennedy assassination and vote in favor of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights acts. His service culminated in an eight-year stint as House Minority Leader.

The resignation of Vice President Spiro Agnew elevated Ford to the nation’s second-highest office as the Watergate scandal was unfolding. Richard Nixon’s 1974 resignation installed Gerald Ford as the 38th president of the United States, becoming the first commander-in-chief from the State of Michigan. In his first speech to the nation, Ford affirmed his commitment to the values that had guided his life and career, saying “I have not sought this enormous responsibility, but I will not shirk it…It is only fitting then that I should pledge to them and to you that I will be the President of all the people.”

His time in the White House coming to a close in 1977, Gerald R. Ford’s career in public service and elected office was a recurring tale of patriotism, humility, and compassion. His legacy is demonstrative of the University of Michigan’s commitment to civic leadership and serves as a powerful example for policymakers who have followed him. His steady leadership during a period of tumult in America offers a guide for us as we weather the storms of today.

From all of us here at the Ford School, happy Presidents Day.