President’s Message: Your Steadfast Support
During a semester at our College that is remarkable for appearances by visiting speakers who are among the world’s most renowned leaders in their fields— in chronological order, Martin Amis, Tony Blair, Jane Goodall, and President Jimmy Carter—this magazine celebrates leadership in a variety of ways.
In addition to featuring Karen Fried Young ’81 and other graduates whose skills, motivation, and courage to lead entrepreneurial ventures stem in part from their Lafayette experience, the issue offers a window on robust leadership-development opportunities for current students.
Indeed, the involvement and support of dedicated alumni are vital ingredients in the vibrancy and success of these programs. Keynote speaker Bob Sell ’84 and other alumni shared their perspectives with more than 200 first-year and sophomore students at the annual Lafayette Leadership Institute in February. More than 100 student-athletes are participating in the Oaks Leadership Academy, endowed by Cindy Oaks Linville ’80 and Jud Linville ’79 to honor Cindy’s father, Billy Oaks ’51.
The Center for Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership, known as IDEAL, is a transformative new initiative with an emphasis on multidisiciplinarity. Building on the College’s
traditional strengths in the liberal arts and engineering, it will enhance opportunities for students to learn and apply the skills and perspectives of leaders in business, nonprofits, and government. Support from Don Morel ’79 and the late Robert Adenbaum ’49 is enabling it to begin taking shape.
This issue also offers an opportunity to get to know President-Elect Alison Byerly in ways that complement previous coverage on the web of her appointment and welcoming events on campus. Lafayette is a strong institution that will be stronger in the days ahead under Alison’s leadership. I am pleased to be working closely with her on a smooth transition in the presidency.
Lafayette is well positioned to engage challenges, seize opportunities, and continue to move forward. Everything that has been accomplished over the last eight years reflects the strong and coordinated commitment of trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Once again, thank you for your steadfast support of Lafayette and for your friendship.