One of the perks of being Foundation chairman is that I get to sit with the Welty Gala speaker at dinner.

Byron Pitts, award-winning CBS journalist, claimed the starring role that night, drawing a crowd of over 240 alums and friends of the University. We’re already planning for our next Gala, your Foundation’s annual fundraiser. I hope you’ll join us in October 2013 for a fine dining experience, excellent fellowship and another outstanding speaker.

In November, we celebrated the grand re-opening of Poindexter Hall, home to the University’s music program. What a gorgeous building! Thanks to the many people whose contributions made this renovation possible. Nora Miller ’83, senior vice president for administration and CFO, spearheaded the project. Connie Sills Kossen ‘64, for whom the auditorium is named, and her husband Tom gave generously. Ken and Nancy Kennedy,’56 sponsored the refurbishing of a grand piano practice room named in Nancy’s honor. These are just a few examples of giving to make Poindexter a shining jewel in The W’s crown.

Fall semester was busy at The W. Now we look forward to an equally robust spring. Dr. Jim Borsig’s inauguration as our University’s 14th president is scheduled for February 15. Homecoming is set for April 19-21, 2013. Mark your calendars now for those weekends as we celebrate The Long Blue Line. Last year, faculty and staff contributed more than $34,000 during the annual
Faculty/Staff Giving campaign, placing a strong dollar figure on their loyalty to MUW. Almost 50 percent of faculty and staff supported the MUW Foundation. This year, we’re fostering a culture of giving with our current students, encouraging them to donate $10 for a T-shirt. This campaign introduces them to the MUW Foundation and enables them to make their first gift. An educational component has also been incorporated, giving these students an important lesson in philanthropy. And they’ve already raised $570! I’m very grateful for their generosity.

If you haven’t made a gift to The W this year, I encourage you to support our alma mater. We have several new donor societies. Choose one that fits your checkbook. Honor a fellow alum. Donate to your class scholarship fund. Make a contribution of $40 or more and become an active, voting member in MUW’s Alumni Association.

Time, Talent, Treasure. Your gift makes a difference, and we thank you.

Warm regards,
Ruth Pettey Jones, Class of 1976
Chairman
MUW Foundation Board