Alumni association president's report

This is a time for celebration. Seniors have finished their theses and, after orals and graduation, will enter the world ready to make their mark. Many alumni met with Steven Koblik this spring, saw the Campaign for Reed College video, and heard about the continued success of the college. The faculty has grown almost 10 percent, a strong endowment supports increased financial aid, and new buildings are in use for classes, student living, and research. These are good times for Reed College and its students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

It's important to say thank you to the many people who have made this possible. A big thank you goes to President Koblik for being such an able leader during the past eight years, bringing together the different factions of the Reed community to achieve great things. Alumni played an important role in leading the college as trustees, alumni board volunteers, chapter volunteers, and donors. I want to personally thank alumni director Marianne Brogan '84 for her able leadership in keeping alumni volunteers focused, energized, and empowered to further the creation of a vibrant alumni community connected to the college.

We mustn't get complacent, though. There are still goals to be achieved, and I ask each of you to think of how you can contribute your resources to the betterment of Reed College (and I'm not talking money here, although I'm sure the college would like that too). First of all, go to campus and see what's happening there; Alumni College and reunions are a good way to do this. You should see what's been, and continues to be, created there. Then participate in a chapter activity and meet other alumni. You might not know the others, but you share a past that allows you to strike up a conversation easily. Volunteer your time at the chapter level or national board level. We are always looking for people to assume positions of leadership. Finally, stay tuned as the alumni board continues to create opportunities for interaction with students, recent graduates, and alumni of all eras. We know Reed College is a special place, and we all need to make sure it continues that legacy.  

Sally Snyder Brunette '83
sallyb@aa.net, 425/562-2670