Director's Letter

In many regards, this is a time of new beginnings and fresh outlooks. It seems everywhere we turn we are bombarded with themes of renewal. The university is no exception. Mason is poised to embrace future challenges with plans for growth in many areas and key administrative positions filled with dynamic leaders.

Alumni are playing a significant role in the university's drive toward increased excellence. New energy that has been directed toward strengthening ties with alumni has begun to produce tangible results. The warm response from Mason alumni to recent outreach efforts by President Merten and other university representatives has helped to generate enthusiasm and an increased commitment to develop a comprehensive alumni relations program. Those of you who live near the university can witness the exciting developments firsthand. If you live outside the area, don't be surprised to find Mason coming to you in the form of a visit from a member of the faculty or administration or a gathering of local alumni. I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to become reacquainted with your alma mater and to network with colleagues and friends within the Mason community. Your involvement and participation will give you an increased sense of pride and fulfillment as you learn about, and help others recognize, our many successes.

Last year, we launched a wonderful tradition with the Homecoming Block Party in February. A record number of alumni, faculty, staff, and students participated in this university celebration and cheered on our CAA Champion Patriots. As you know, for a tradition to be established, it must be embraced and cultivated. I hope you will consider joining us on February 26 to help ensure an even better event this year. Homecoming, by definition, cannot be truly successful without the support of alumni. I hope to see many of you there. Go Patriots!

Christine Clark-Talley
Director