WINONA, Minn. – The outgoing Scott Olson, known for a sense of humor in his 11 years as president of Winona State University, left a farewell messge as he moves into the top MinnState job as state chancellor. As chancellor in St. Paul, he said he is looking forward to his most important duties. Tongue firmly in cheek, in reverse order, is his list:
> Valet parker for bargaining unit leaders.
> Purchase commercial real estate on Summit Avenue for Bloedow’s North.
> Design roundabouts for downtown Minneapolis.
> Hold place in line for students when Beyonce tickets go on sale.
> Await upstream arrival of the Cal Fremling.
> Book bouncy house for System Office Game Day Experience.
> Donate purple tie collection to Paisley Park.
> Set Gopher traps around the Twin Cities.
> Sleep in on snow days
> Pine for campus life.
Olson also released a farewell video. A good-bye gathering was scheduled for Thurdyt at 6 p.m. in the Kryzsko ballroom on campus.
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Teary moments. Amid packed-up cartons awaiting the moving van in his Somsen Hall office, Olson and Winona State mascot Wazoo hug their goodbyes. Yes, Wazoo stays in Winona.