I see Americans of every party, every background, every faith who believe that we are stronger together: black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American; young, old; gay, straight; men, women, folks with disabilities, all pledging allegiance under the same proud flag to this big, bold country that we love. That's what I see. That's the America I know!

Those who educate children well are more to be honored than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well.

As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others.

I'm not as famous as Stephen Hawking, but certainly in the U.S., I have a very high profile for a scientist. It is an awesome responsibility, one that I don't shoulder lightly.

I am an optimist. It does not seem too much use being anything else.