"Its story constantly involves the student, faculty member, and administrator—all the interacting members of the campus and community. It is then a composition authored by its participants, those of the past and present, ever infl uenced by the  potential offered by the unpredictable future."

Those words began the preface to my college senior yearbook, the 1968 Orient. My graduation year represented Ball State's 50th year as a public institution. Perhaps even more significant is the fact that hundreds of new graduates  were entering the professional world with degrees from not only the long-flourishing  Teachers College, but also from four other colleges which, though fledgling in age—we had officially had university status for three years—had already begun to establish themselves for decade-after-decade of success.

Ball State has a strong history of forward-thinking with particular focus on providing an excellent education. In the 1968 yearbook, President John R. Emens, who  completed his 23-year tenure as president that year, is quoted: "People are the most  important things on this campus, buildings are just the means to an end; to make this  the best possible university for our students, we employ only the best people for the  faculty, administration, and staff."

Today, our message is the same. We are firmly planted in the philosophy that we are student-centered and, as Earl Conn tells us in this issue's Comment, our foundation  is in exceptional teaching and administration in an outstanding learning environment.

A look inside the magazine confirms Ball State's philosophy manifold. College Close-up describes just one of the many immersive learning opportunities  the university offers.

The main feature takes a three-pronged look at learning, living, and leisure on  campus. The stories are but capsules; however, they present highlights of Ball State's innovative, high-quality academic offerings, conducive living environment, and diverse entertainment and spare-time opportunities.

We turn next to the people—those who, as alluded to in my senior yearbook, author the direction of our composition. We report that Don Park, vice president for  University Advancement, will retire from the university at the end of June. The Ball State community will deeply miss the vice president's expertise, tireless dedication,  and daily contact. His personal involvement spans more than 40 years as student, professional staff member, and loyal volunteer.

As we prepare to say farewell to Vice President Park, we introduce you to new  provost, Terry King, who will join the Ball State ranks in July from Kansas State  University, and we announce new head men's basketball coach, Ronny Thompson, who comes to Ball State from Arkansas.

You may read about successes of our product—current students and outstanding  alumni. Scott Burk is one example. A 1987 graduate, Burk is helping save lives  through his invention of a ballistic gauntlet that protects military personnel in combat.

We also tell you the story of Ball State baseball brothers, Brad and Ben Snyder. Brad is already in the professional ranks and the outlook is good for younger brother Ben to join him.

In her 2005 inauguration speech, President Jo Ann Gora reconfirmed our commitment to fostering students in a dynamic learning environment. "At Ball State,  we hope that through our actions we will always demonstrate that we put students  first," she said. "We must provide them with an educational experience that stretches them intellectually and creatively and prepares them to meet the challenges of a technology-driven global economy."

Our composition continues.

We hope you will enjoy the entire May issue. It is our debut of full-color throughout. Please let us know what you think.

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Pen Point is written by Charlotte Shepperd, Ball State Alumnus Editor.