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	President's Message | Progressing | Pioneering | Leading | Celebrating | Investing | Financial Report | Report Home Page

Scientists say it takes fewer muscles to smile than to frown, and I’d like to think that a little bit of positive momentum overpowers the drag caused by negative forces. Despite difficulties brought on by a sluggish economy and a resultant decrease in state funding for higher education, the efforts of resourceful and talented people have kept Ball State University moving in the right direction. Innovative programs, strong and creative leaders, and a growing, academically prepared student body give us great hope that we can achieve the high aspirations we have for Ball State. When you consider how much this university has achieved in its history, especially in the past few years, you quickly realize we have a real story to tell, and I am always proud to tell it. In fact, the information you hold in your hands tells a great deal about what is right with Ball State. It also serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit that permeates the university’s excellent work.

As part of my annual President’s Report, it is my pleasure to present the Ball State University Foundation annual report and a publication celebrating and commemorating the completion of the successful Above and Beyond campaign.

Above and Beyond is the largest comprehensive campaign in the university’s history. My predecessor, John Worthen, and the campaign committee deserve high praise for setting an ambitious goal of raising $90 million to help us attract better students by providing scholarships,
creating innovative learning programs, and enhancing the university’s facilities. We believe the support we have received from friends, alumni, foundations, and corporations demonstrates their trust in the value of our educational mission and serves as a confirmation of our vision to be a national model for those who seek a vital, learner-centered, and socially responsible academic community. We are proud that Above and Beyond far surpassed its goal by raising $112.9 million, and you should be equally proud of the role your support will play in shaping this university’s future. As you will see in the Above and Beyond campaign commemorative publication, your contributions are already working in many interesting ways. 

Much responsibility for maintaining the momentum generated by the Above and Beyond campaign rests with the Ball State University Foundation. The foundation is helping change the face of philanthropy. Technological improvements make giving and processing a gift easier, and an enhanced foundation Web site provides better access to information. As donors demonstrate an increased interest in tracking their investments in the university, the foundation has responded with more comprehensive reports on the benefits of particular gifts. And finally, as trusts and foundations across the country deal with the effects of a volatile market, the foundation has worked diligently to diversify its investment strategies to allow the endowment to grow while minimizing the risks. The foundation’s annual report recounts some impressive achievements and gives us confidence that it is well prepared to meet any challenges.

These are busy and exciting times that demand strategic thinking from every area of the university. We continue to set high aspirations, and we know with your continued support, we will achieve our goals and have great stories to tell about Ball State for generations to come.

Very truly yours,

Blaine A. Brownell
President

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