| Boston University’s new president Bob Brown and I have been fortunate to be out “on the road” quite a bit recently, visiting with alumni at receptions around the country, and we have been very pleased by record turnouts and by the interesting and knowledgeable questions alumni, parents, and friends have asked. It is exciting when a university has a new and dynamic leader driving forward focused discussions of its future. A strategic planning process, designed by President Brown, is well underway, engaging students, faculty, trustees, alumni, and friends in a variety of contexts. The point of the process is to develop consensus around the University’s top priorities. You will be hearing more about this planning process as it goes forward.
One thing is clear to me in my role as the University’s chief fundraiser: no matter what the final strategic plan looks like, we are going to need increased philanthropic support. While there are limited ways to increase revenue, perhaps the most flexible one is from philanthropy, as well, of course, as from research contracts with governmental and other agencies. I hope that Boston University will be able to continue counting on alumni. We really need your support, and it seems to me that more and more of you understand this and are making your University one of your top priorities in annual giving because you are interested in the University, because you care about it, and because you want others to have a rich educational experience comparable to your own.
As I write this, in early March, we are running about 23 percent ahead of last year’s gift income, and about 17 percent ahead in new pledges as well. We are gratified by this response, because we realize that there are many worthy causes asking for your support. I do urge you to stay in close touch with the University, with faculty, fellow alumni, and parents who have sons and daughters here now. Go online and read BU Today. Read Bostonia and your school or college newsletter. Keep your eye out for other news of Boston University. Take pride in your alma mater and continue to support it. If you do, we should set a record not only this year but in every year to come.
Thank you for the wonderful support you have shown for Boston University this year and in the past. The sun is shining brightly on the Charles River and the sky is blue — good signs that we will complete this year in an upbeat way.
All best wishes,
Christopher R. Reaske |
