Ford50: Commemorating an exceptional presidency
Fifty years ago, at a time of great division and turbulence in the U.S., Gerald R. Ford was sworn in as the 38th president of the United States.
President Ford's legacy is very much alive here at the Ford School of Public Policy, and we are proud to bear his name. The values that distinguished him remain so relevant to policy students: his lifelong commitment to principled public service, his integrity, and his ability to connect across differences to forge consensus.
In many ways, members of the Ford School community—our alumni, students, and friends—are carrying on President Ford’s living and lasting legacy through our dedication to the public good.
This year, the Ford School commemorates 50 years since President Ford took office with public events, contests (with great prizes!), and other fun ways to celebrate.
Ford50
Contests and awards
![Gerald R. Ford with his family](/sites/default/files/2024-04/state-hill-spring-2024-ford-life-of-service-family-1090x681.jpg)
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"I have not sought this enormous responsibility, but I will not shirk it ... I believe that truth is the glue that holds government together, not only our Government, but civilization itself. That bond, though strained, is unbroken at home and abroad."
Gerald R. Ford in his first address to the American people as president.
Events
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Sep
13
2024
Jul
14
2024
Ford legacy
A man of enormous integrity: How the Ford School got its name
In December 1977, at the annual party of the Institute of Public Policy Studies (IPPS), a young graduate student named James McIntire (MPP ’78) found...
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