Sometimes people associate the word “alumni” with a culture
of nostalgia, a yearning for the “good old days.” Popular
culture feeds us images of alumni whose only active involvement
with their alma mater is through college athletics.
However,
University of Minnesota alumni disprove that stereotype
through their strong record of activism and support for their
colleges.
Of the University's 17 alumni societies, the IT Alumni
Society (ITAS) is one of the most active, dedicated, and
successful
groups.
ITAS members know firsthand that science and technology
are transforming our economy and quality of life because
they're on the front lines of these sweeping changes. Because
they understand just how much is at stake for the University,
our state, and its citizens, they get involved.
Alumni are making a difference in the lives of current IT
students, most notably through the IT Mentor Program, which
offers students practical advice and career-planning assistance.
Mentors reconnect with the University and share ideas with
the next generation of leaders in science and technology.
Now in its 10th year, IT's mentor program has nearly 500
participants, making it one of the most successful mentor
programs at the University. I'm grateful to all our mentors
for their investment of time and energy on behalf of our
students.
Alumni can make a critical difference to our students and
to the University's long-term future by voicing their support
for the University's 2002-2003 biennial budget request, now
under consideration by the Minnesota State Legislature. The
budget proposal has great significance for IT's ability to
strengthen its current programs and to invest in areas of
critical need.
At last year's economic summit, leaders from the public
and private sectors repeatedly stressed the importance of
a strong research university to Minnesota's economy and quality
of life. Without the level of funding proposed in President
Yudof's budget—as well as a continuing, long-term commitment
of sufficient resources—the University's ability to
carry out its mission will be seriously jeopardized. I urge
you to contact your legislators now and ask them to fund
the University's full budget request.
You can find out more about the budget request and the provisions
that affect IT directly by going to the college's newly revised
web site. Along with a fresh new design, the web site
features improved navigability and expanded content to serve
you better. It's a great way to stay connected to IT. From
the site's home page, follow a link to your department and
find out about the research activity, news, and events happening
there.
Another easy way to stay informed is to receive our monthly
electronic newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, go
to our online
survey and indicate on the form that you'd like to receive
the newsletter.
Of course, the best way to keep in touch with IT is by joining
ITAS (dues are only $30 per year) or by volunteering your
time. Membership in ITAS is also a powerful and effective
way for you to support IT and the University. I encourage
you to join ITAS as an alumnus, friend, or student. You can
join online at www.it.umn.edu/itas.
IT and the University are uniquely positioned to help ensure
Minnesota's competitiveness in the global economy. Together,
we have the resources, world recognition, and skills to
achieve this long-term goal. I'm truly thankful to be working
alongside so many talented, interesting, and committed individuals.
