Notable Encounter Quotes

Back in 2007, I had the opportunity to meet Professor Stephen Hawking through the X PRIZE Foundation. In my first conversation with him I learned that he was passionate about flying into space someday.

I've never been so star struck in my life as when I met President Obama and Bill Clinton... and at the same time, no less! I'm not one to be at a loss for words, and that was a moment when I really was speechless. It was a big, big night.

I guess my claim to fame is I've now gaveled Ted Kennedy to order twice.

Herb Wong was an incredible man. We met when I was performing with Clark Terry at the Wichita Jazz Festival around 1974.

My first-ever meeting with Abbas-Mustan sir was for three-four hours! I haven't met anybody for so long, even those who I know well.

The most surreal moment might have been meeting President Obama. It was really cool, actually; they, like, announced us into the room. There was a man in a uniform who announced all our names in a booming voice, and we walk in, and there's the president.

I first met Walt Disney 25 or 30 years ago.

It was wicked meeting Nelson Mandela.