Political Quotes

“I would like to recognize the passing of a mentor to me and many other political science students over the years. Russell Marion Ross was a professor of political science for more than 40 years at the University of Iowa. He died on Tuesday, April 27, at age 88. Dr. Ross was an Iowan through and through. Born in Washington, IA, he received his bachelor and master degrees, and Ph.D. in political science from the University of Iowa. He served as chairman of the department for many years. In 1987, he wrote a book on the department's history for the Iowa State Historical Society. Following his retirement, he continued to teach long-distance education classes until the time of his death. Dr. Ross began his association with long-distance education while serving in the Navy on the aircraft carrier USS Manilla Bay. He was an expert on local government and politics. He wrote several books in his field, served as executive assistant to Governor Norman Erbe in the 1960s, and was the mayor of University Heights for more than 10 years. Dr. Ross influenced numerous students over the years. Online condolences included postings by two city managers who said Dr. Ross guided their vocations. Other postings came from those with fond memories of Dr. Ross' friendliness, approachability, and honesty. As Joel and Sandy Barkan of Washington, DC, wrote: "He was devoted to the University, a good steward, and a straight shooter in the Iowa tradition.”