The following statement was issued by Ohio State President Kristina M. Johnson on Sunday, February 19, 2023.
The Ohio State University and the Big Ten community were so deeply saddened to hear the news about the death of Rebecca M. Blank, former president-elect and professor of economics at Northwestern University.
During her outstanding career as an economist and academic leader, Becky championed research and innovation, access, entrepreneurship and economic development. She elevated the institutions she served, impressed her peers, and empowered the people she led. I know her decision to step down as president-elect of Northwestern because of a cancer diagnosis was extremely difficult. On behalf of the Ohio State community, I extend my condolences to Dr. Blank’s family, friends, and the many colleagues who were fortunate to work with such an outstanding person.
