I write to you at an important juncture in the history of the University of Rochester and the Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development with a request for your time, perspective, and experience as we embark on strategic planning that will build on the progress of the School over recent years. We are committed to planning for our future, to ensure that the Warner School is prepared and poised to help schools, educational institutions, and educating professionals face serious challenges in the years ahead. We believe that education can transform lives and make the world more just and humane, and it is our responsibility now to ensure that the Warner School is positioned to best contribute to improving the world through education.

As we examine our strengths and weaknesses, consider our competition, and the needs of the professionals, schools, and educational institutions we serve, it is critical that we solicit input from our graduates. You put your trust in the University when you pursued your graduate education with us, and we very much want you to be a part of our future. We hope that you can give voice to our graduates as we invest in the long-term health and well-being of the School, while ensuring that we meet the needs of our students and our nation's schools and educational and helping institutions.

We have planned two open forum meetings in Rochester with Warner alumni to have a conversation about the mission, vision, and long-range plans for the School.  I would be most appreciative if you would join me to share your concerns and ideas at one of these times:

         Friday, September 30, 4-5:30 p.m. (Dewey Hall 1-305)
            Thursday, October 6, 7-8:30 p.m. (Schlegal Hall S201)

Please contact Kim Cardone at (585) 275-7428 if you are able to join us. (If leaving a message, please specify which session you plan to attend.)  

For those who live outside of the Rochester region and anyone unable to attend who would like to participate in this exciting planning process, I encourage you to email (raffaella.borasi@rochester.edu ) or write me.  I look forward to the opportunity to engage in conversation about the future of education and this research school of education.

Sincerely,

Raffaella Borasi
Dean & Frederica Warner Professor
Margaret Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development
University of Rochester
RC Box 270425
Rochester , NY 14627