Southern Illinois University Carbondale has always had a special place in the hearts of its alums. It is a school of remarkable contrasts. It is at the same time a sophisticated research institution, but one known for faculty teaching. It has traditionally been a school of choice for first-generation college students, yet it provides those students with a world-class education. It provides big city academics, and recreational and sporting activities in a rural, idyllic setting. It remains wonderfully familiar, but it continues to improve and to remodel itself as changing times and technology require.
In short, it is a source of golden memories, with a very bright future. The school is proud of its ability to transform lives, create productive citizens, and send them out into the world as wonderful representatives of the university that trained them. Our capital campaign, Opportunity Through Excellence, is a chance to build on Southern's solid reputation, grow to new prominence, and do an even better job of what it already does so well: providing opportunity for students to live educated, competent, and happy lives. This campaign will add to those strengths and further enhance the value of a Southern degree.

I look forward to the greater sense of self-confidence the school will have as a result of this campaign. It is the first in the university's long history, and it will make a tremendous difference in the life of the university. By supporting Southern's people, programs, and places, we will be investing in us. You will be prouder of your university when we secure our position among the top 75 research institutions in the U.S. You will be glad that you had a hand in helping it reach new heights of excellence while never abandoning its important mission.

Give Southern the opportunity to do and be even more. Join me in giving generously to Opportunity Through Excellence. The past has indeed been glorious, but it is only the prelude to a more glorious future.