Right in the Naming
Editorial // Akron Beacon Journal
> Read the original article on Ohio.com
John S. Knight famously said, ''I don't care who runs Akron. Just so somebody runs it. It's too important to be left alone.'' Many people have had a role the past three decades seeking to fulfill this part of the Knight legacy. Few have been as dedicated or as effective as Dr. W. Gerald Austen.
Born in Akron, Austen hasn't worked here, or resided in the city since his youth. He has been a defining presence, especially in his role the past 13 years as the chairman of the board of trustees of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. On Sunday, the foundation gathered community leaders to celebrate Austen's many contributions. (He will retire from the foundation in March 2010.) The evening concluded with the announcement that the BioInnovation Institute in Akron will carry the Austen name, honoring Dr. Austen and his wife, Patricia.
The addition works on many levels. A renowned cardiac surgeon, Austen knows well the potential of the BioInnovation Institute to marry local strengths in polymers and orthopedics to heal and advance lives. The investment of the Knight Foundation builds on its other efforts in the city, so many coming during Austen's tenure as chairman, from the new art museum to the University Park Alliance to the Center of Digitial Excellence.
The Knight Foundation has been an engaged and indispensable partner. Dr. Austen, once friend, caregiver and adviser to the Knight brothers, has served, in no small way, as the keeper of their legacy. His capacity as a listener and a builder of consensus has been much applauded. Most striking has been his positive attitude, not easy in an old tire town. He sees the potential. He wants Akron to run.