Our higher education system has to be a part of the economic recovery strategy. - Gary Locke

I joke that it took our family 100 years to travel one mile. But what a journey it has been. Our family story is the story of millions of families whose ancestors came to these shores from all around the world in search of freedom, opportunity, and equality.

I always wanted a job where I could help people. I never dreamed when I ran for a seat in the Legislature that I would end up in the Governor's office. At the time, I wanted to do something to improve education in the state. It's still my highest priority.

I am honored to serve as governor of Washington, and especially as our nation's first Chinese-American governor. It is a difficult and tiring job at times, but it is also very rewarding.