A self-study survey had been completed in the spring of 1964 by a sampling of 793 of the college's alumni. The survey sought answers about Ball State's strengths and weaknesses, its physical care and development, and the level of alumni satisfaction with the cost and quality of their education. The result was that graduates suggested they had a high regard for their alma mater. They also felt that a change in name to "University" would better-reflect the real nature of the institution.

In his first message of the new calendar to alumni, President John R. Emens wrote: "The year 1965 offers more challenges to fulfill our state's commitment to higher education than probably any year in the state's 149-year history. It is imperative that we maintain our standards of excellence in the face of rising enrollments and spiraling costs, and to meet the needs of an ever-changing society. This is essential if we are to educate today's students to fulfill roles of leadership and responsibility that life in America will demand in this and the 21st Century."

As if to provide a prelude to the nation of the forthcoming action, Ball State's marching band proudly stepped down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C., representing Indiana during the January 20 inaugural parade for President Lyndon Johnson. Less than three weeks later, Indiana Governor Roger Branigin signed the bill, February 8, 1965, changing the name Ball State Teachers College to Ball State University and setting into motion a tremendous course for the future.

How do we fast-forward four decades so full of accomplishment without stopping for snapshots along the way? We can't.

In our lead story, Suzanne Clem presents a replay of a few of the moments that led to university status and a description of the climate of the era. To supplement her words Richard Burkhardt, who was vice president for instructional affairs and dean of faculties in 1965, provides a view from the top, while alumnus Phil Burgan describes the campus he remembers in the mid-'60s.

The fifth college to join Ball State's ranks was the College of Architecture and Planning. As the college celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2005, we take a look at its development.

In 1965 Ball State was enjoying athletic success as well as academic achievement. Coach Ray Louthen's 1965 football team was undefeated during regular season play, tying Tennessee State in the bowl game. Sadly, the Ball State family said goodbye to Coach Louthen in early December 2004. We have a tribute to him.

I additionally was deeply saddened by the death of both parents during the last six months of 2004, joining many others in coping with the void that comes from that kind of loss.

We tend to look back, then forward at this time each year. We pause to reflect fondly on the good times; we shed a tear or two, manage a smile, and think for a moment about what an impact our loved ones have made—on family, friends, and community. Then we move ahead, grateful that they passed our way, happy for their example, and hopeful that we might, in some way, have a positive impact on others.

One theme that emerges to tie together the celebration of Ball State's four decades of achievement with the acknowledgment of people's lives and their impact, perhaps is best-summarized thus: "The way we were, the way we are, the way we hope to be." Build on the past. Look to the future.

May you have peace, prosperity, and patience in the year ahead.