"Stem-cell research is in a very early state and while it may hold great promise we should not overstate the state of science, or politicise these issues, " he wrote in a recent edition of Nature magazine.

BBC: NEWS | Americas | Q&A: The politics of stem cells

Or maybe the students are excited about the Honors College at a great state school.

FORBES: A Different Kind of National Signing Day for Academic Over-Achievers

The new medal will honour Russians who have achieved great things in the economy, public life or in their work for the state.

BBC: Russia seeks new generation of 'heroes'

And the Great Recession has left state and local governments looking to slash budgets or grab any source of revenue they possibly can.

FORBES: Leslie Knope, Call Your Office

Al Sharpton, the lone black candidate in the Democratic field, did not claim either first or second in South Carolina, despite spending a great deal of time in the state.

CNN: Kerry wins five states

That in area (a) France, and in area (b) Great Britain, shall alone supply advisers or foreign functionaries at the request of the Arab state or confederation of Arab states.

BBC: Map detailing the Sykes-Picot agreement

Well, this is a challenging time for all of us to serve as chief executives at the federal or state level -- I'd say an economy that's still undergoing a great deal of stress, as you noted.

WHITEHOUSE: State Dining Room