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News Release

Last modified: Sunday, May 5, 2013

Statement from IU President McRobbie on the death of former Indiana Gov. Otis R. 'Doc' Bowen

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2013

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie issued the following statement on the passing of former Indiana Gov. Otis R. Bowen, a distinguished alumnus and titled professor at IU.

McRobbie said:

"Doc Bowen was a healer, a leader and a wonderful representative of Indiana University, both as a student and throughout his career as a physician, educator and political leader. He was an extraordinarily impressive man who leaves behind a legacy of immense accomplishment that will be felt across Indiana and the nation for decades to come.

"In addition to being one of Indiana's legendary governors, Doc Bowen also was a strong speaker of the House in the Indiana General Assembly, a key member of President Reagan's cabinet and, of course, always a dedicated and compassionate family doctor.

"He also was a proud Hoosier and a true friend to Indiana University for more than seven decades whose achievements place him among the giants of Indiana and IU history. While I am deeply saddened by his passing, I feel fortunate to have known a man of such great integrity and unquestioned character."

Highlights of Bowen's ties to Indiana University:

1939 -- Earned bachelor's degrees in anatomy and physiology

1942 -- Graduated from the IU School of Medicine

1971 -- Presented with IU School of Medicine's Distinguished Alumni Award

1976 -- Received an honorary doctorate from IU

1981 -- Became a clinical professor of family medicine

1986 -- Received the Distinguished Alumni Service Award from IU

1988 -- Named Lester D. Bibler Professor Emeritus of Family Medicine

1999 -- Received IU Bloomington College of Arts and Sciences Distinguished Alumni Award

2012 -- Received Ryan White Distinguished Leadership Award from IU School of Public Health

He was also a lifelong IU basketball and football fan who regularly attended games when his health allowed.

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