The sun is out. The smell of hotdogs is in the air. Kids are running around, playing tag as if the winner will become the ruler of the free world. Another day at the little league ballpark, coaching future professional baseball players, scientists and teachers. I am describing this scene because we all stay busy with our family and work. These adventures often pull us in seven different directions. Believe me when I say I understand if you tell me you are too busy to come back to campus.

So, to help you see the campus in a fun way, Chancellor Rakes will take you on a ride through our campus on a golf cart to share with you some of the new construction, classrooms and programs we offer. You can find the tour on www.utmforever.com. While you are on the Web site, check out the lost alumni link, update your information and see what else you can discover about your alma mater.

I would like to ask you to do the following for UT Martin. First, give us your email address. Why, you may ask? So we can send you a monthly update of happenings on campus, as well as special news as it occurs. We have roughly 48% of our alumni’s email addresses. By providing us with your address, you can also help us save valuable resources by sending out free emails to alert you to upcoming events and other news.

Second, visit campus—either in person or by watching the video. Then make plans to come and visit during homecoming and bring a friend. For those who have attended homecoming in recent years, please tell your friends about your own experience and invite them to take part. On the homecoming Web site, you will find an electronic postcard invitation you can send to family and friends with your own personal message. I am sure you and your family will not be disappointed with our festivities.
I must close my thoughts now. It’s time to take the field again, and the kids are starting to climb the fence. I only wish I had half that energy! Go Skyhawks!