“UT Martin has got it going on!” This is just one of the many comments I heard during Homecoming 2007 activities. When Bill Rhodes accepted his UT Martin Outstanding Young Alumnus Award, he said “This university plays such an important role. It’s up to us as alumni to help get that message out.” Dr. John Petersen, University of Tennessee president, called the atmosphere on campus “infectious,” “a place where people love being, working and going to school.”

What does this mean? One year ago, I challenged you to give back financially. You responded and, as a result, UT Martin was the only school in the UT system to enjoy an increase in the percentage of alumni giving. Are we where we want to be? No, not by a long shot! But we are making progress and will continue to give you good reasons to give back to your alma mater. Here are a few questions to consider:

Is it important to you that UT Martin is ranked one of the best schools in the southeast?

Is it important to you that our students travel abroad and truly experience lifelong learning?

Is it important to you that academic programs offer state-of-the-art training to today’s students so they can compete in the global economy?

Is there a gift too small? NO. I often tell folks to give an amount that makes them feel good. Ten dollars a year or $100 a day, it all goes to help students, faculty and this university achieve more and provide you, our alumni, reason to keep dusting off your diploma each year. It is your choice. Support your alma mater and send a message to people around the world that this place, our university, does matter to you!