Western Carolina University - Greetings from Advancement

<body> <h4>A Message From Claire Eldridge, Vice-Chancellor of Advancement and External Affairs</h4> <p>On the cusp of a new century, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are discovering ways to make a difference and help create an era full of possibilities for teaching, learning, and scholarship at Western Carolina University.</p> <p>Western's mission and, indeed, its responsibility is to provide today's students with the knowledge and skills for lives and careers that we can only imagine. A challenge, yes, but with a proven history of educating teachers, community and business leaders, healthcare professionals, and others, while preserving the region's fine Appalachian heritage, we know we can accomplish our goals.</p> <p>From the beginning, Western has relied on private support and volunteerism. In the early part of this century, the university began as a private school for the children of local farmers and businesspeople. To provide the best possible education for those early students, the school soon realized a perfect partnership comes when private and state monies join hands The same is even more true today!</p> <p>Volunteering is a great way for you to become involved in Western's tradition and future. The Alumni Board of Directors, the Catamount Club Board of Directors, and several collegiate advisory boards and councils are waiting for your knowledge and expertise. The Friends of Hunter Library, music and theatre programs, and the sciences are examples of where you might place your talents and energy.</p> <p>If you don't have a lot of time, or can't travel to Cullowhee, you might consider helping with alumni reunion groups, the Catamount Club auction committee, or with your area Western Club. These groups need volunteers for such short-term projects as planning events, making phone calls, and stuffing envelopes.</p> <p>Western Clubs, groups of alumni who gather for fun, while supporting the university's mission within their locales, are scattered throughout North Carolina, and in Atlanta, Georgia. And more clubs are in the process of forming in other areas. Western Clubs are a great way to renew old friendships and become involved with your alma mater without traveling a great distance.</p> <p>Becoming more aware and involved in the immediate needs and future goals of WCU, alumni, friends, and others are increasingly providing financial support. This is a wonderful, natural progression, and one for which we are truly grateful.</p> <p>To be sure, state funding cannot keep pace with the true costs of a college education. It is up to us to provide for the difference between an adequate education and a great one!</p> <p>In the pages of this report, you'll find dozens of opportunities and occasions for contributing to Western. Gifts, large and small, personal, corporate, and foundation, are appreciated and essential to WCU's success.</p> <p>Western Carolina University is at a threshold in its history. We thank all of our supporters and encourage others to join in becoming a part of Western's promising future. </p> <p><a href="mailto:eldridge@wcu.edu">CLAIRE ELDRIDGE<br><img border="0" src="images/CEsignature.gif" WIDTH="125" HEIGHT="38"><br>Vice Chancellor Advancement and External Affairs</a></p> </body>