Whether he’s walking to work or greeting students and faculty, the click of a camera follows President Gregory Geoffroy wherever he goes.

“I’ve never been photographed so much in my life,” Geoffroy said. “I think in this position it’s impossible to be invisible. I very much enjoy interacting with faculty, students and staff. It’s important to meet the university community and show them strong support.”

The single most thrilling event of the year was beating the University of Iowa in football, Geoffroy said, and he has enjoyed his first six months in the president’s office.

“Iowa is a wonderful state,” he said. “I can’t even tell you how much I enjoy the warmth and friendliness of the people of Iowa and their real sincere and down-to-earth perspective on life. It’s very refreshing.”

The most difficult time of the semester was when he thought the state was going to make a 7.5 percent mid-year deappropriation of Iowa State’s budget, Geoffroy said.

“The ongoing budget challenges and the uncertainties associated with next year’s budget have been the toughest thing to deal with this year,” he said. “We are still deeply concerned with the 4.3 percent mid-year deappropriation, but are grateful we don’t have to face a 7.5 percent cut.”

Geoffroy has adjusted to life at Iowa State well, despite starting his presidency amid extreme budget problems, said Vice President for Business and Finance Warren Madden.

“I’ve been here a long time and he’s the fourth president I’ve had the opportunity to work with,” Madden said. “He’s made a smooth transition and the feedback I’ve heard from Faculty Senate and student body leaders has been extremely positive. He’s initiated a number of quality relationships and has done very well.”

Geoffroy’s wife, Kathy, stayed in Maryland this year while their youngest son finished his senior year of high school.

“She wishes she could be here more and, of course, after next June she will be,” Geoffroy said.

“Living apart is not as easy as we hoped it might be but we’re really looking forward to next semester and her move here permanently.”

Geoffroy will return to Maryland to spend the holidays with his family, and then the family will head to Shreveport for the MainStay Independence Bowl Dec. 27.

“It will be a lot of fun and a great football game,” he said.

“The members of the Iowa State family will really get to enjoy the fruits of a successful season.”