The Nikiases keep USC in motion, even on vacation
The nonstop schedule for USC’s 11th president and first lady takes a different pace for a brief few weeks in the summer in the breathtaking setting of Sun Valley, Idaho. USC President C. L. Max Nikias and Mrs. Niki C. Nikias leave behind their formal meeting, delegation, speaking, travel, protocol, and academic regalia, and instead don their summer wardrobe—exercise gear, emblazoned with USC logos, of course.
Avid cyclists, the Nikiases clocked 705 miles of bike riding over three weeks in Idaho. Along the way, USC Trustee Tamara Gustavson and her husband, Eric Gustavson, both joined in the outdoor cycling adventure.
“When Niki and I are surrounded by the scenic beauty of the American West, we are reminded of the historic importance of our region in the development of the United States,” reflected President Nikias. “It is a majestic setting, and the people are so warm and welcoming—the true embodiment of the American spirit.”
The Trojan Family was never far from their activities. They were invited to a traditional raclette dinner at the home of Mrs. Elaine Leventhal, whose late husband was the namesake of the USC Leventhal School of Accounting. The Leventhals, active lifelong travelers themselves, first introduced the Nikiases to the Sun Valley area. Jane and Kris Popovich also invited the Nikiases for a barbeque at their home.
And during their bike rides, the USC-branded gear drew dozens of greetings of “Fight on!” and “Go Trojans!” and the occasional “Go Ducks!” Even while stopping to buy lemonade in a small town from a pair of local 12-year-old entrepreneurs, President Nikias was pleasantly surprised to encounter a young Trojan fan, “I was amazed to learn that one of the kids knew all about Matt Barkley and that his dream was to study at USC.”
No surprise, the Trojan Family creates excitement, near and far.