"(I've been) trying to get out into the state, get to know the state a little better and the people in the state," Oblinger said.
The theme for Wednesday's installation of Oblinger was innovation in action. He said an example of that is Centennial Campus, which is now 20 years old.
"I think the classic illustration of innovation in action is, in fact, Centennial campus," he said. "The way we partner with business, industry, government all in partnership, working together involving our students, undergraduate and graduate students geared toward innovation and providing value."
To keep that kind of momentum going, Oblinger said he is focusing on building relationships -- relationships with the university family, the people of the state and state lawmakers who control the purse strings.
"We just need to talk about the tremendous depth and breadth that N.C. State has on a daily basis in North Carolina," Oblinger said.
When it comes to students, Oblinger is building a brand new relationship with a brand-new leader -- Student Body President-Elect
Whil Piavis
. He was on the ballot as "The Pirate Captain."
"I have actually met Whil. I met him in the parking lot yesterday. I was returning from a rehearsal," Piavis. "He's a very pleasant guy. I'm looking forward to working with him."
Gov. Mike Easley, UNC-system President Molly Broad and Duke President Richard Broadhead participated in Wednesday's installation ceremony.
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