Li Ning had completed the experimental proof of the superconducting antigravity theory and would almost certainly be working at Stanford University. It wasn't that he was definitely 'jumping ship,' but rather that for antigravity research, Stanford University was where he could get the best environment.
The University of Alabama didn't have the relevant talent, nor even any related research projects in the works.
In short, Li Ning was definitely going to leave.
That's why the School of Sciences and the Personnel Department just gave Li Ning a perfunctory welcome, instead of offering him any tangible rewards.
Li Ning was somewhat frustrated for not receiving any rewards, but he soon discovered that his life was not the same as before.
For instance, several groups of reporters came to interview him.
The first to arrive were two entertainment reporters, also known as gossip journalists.