Statement of University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter on the passing of NU President Emeritus L. Dennis Smith:
"Lynda and I are saddened to learn of the passing of former University of Nebraska President L. Dennis Smith. President Smith led our university system through a period of significant growth and change, never taking his focus off students and the needs of our state. He took great pride in the quality of the university and was a passionate advocate for faculty, research and academic freedom. When he stepped down after 10 years in the role, President Smith said he hoped he was leaving the university better than when he began. I can say with confidence that he did. He will be missed, but generations of University of Nebraska students and faculty will benefit from his leadership. Lynda and I are keeping Suzanne and all of President Smith’s family and friends in our thoughts."