Message from the President
As I report the significant
progress the
University of Rochester
made during the
2007–08 fiscal year, I
also must acknowledge
the economic crisis our
nation faces today. I
am deeply concerned
about how these financial
challenges will affect students and their families,
faculty, staff, and alumni. There are both reasons
to worry and reasons to be hopeful. This nation has
pulled through worse crises before, such as the stock
market crash of 1929–33. I am confident we will pull
through this one.
While now is the time to monitor economic developments carefully and adjust accordingly, it is not a time to retreat from our bold vision for this University. That vision is shaped by the leadership of our Board of Trustees. The Board experienced a pivotal transition when Bob Witmer ’59 completed five great years as chair. On May 16, the Board elected Ed Hajim ’58 to be the new chair. Ed brings remarkable energy, wisdom, and commitment.
Our vision also is shaped by our outstanding leadership team. I am pleased to report that three additional senior leadership appointments were made in 2007–08, completing all positions in the President’s Cabinet. Kathy Parker, a nationally recognized expert in sleep disorders from Emory University, became the new dean of the School of Nursing. Rob Clark, who oversaw remarkable achievements at Duke University, has assumed the role as dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Susan Gibbons was named the Andrew H. and Janet Dayton Neilly Dean of River Campus Libraries and vice provost.
There have been many notable gifts during the 2007–08 fiscal year—too many to note here. Of particular significance was a $10 million commitment in April from Eastman Kodak Company to support the renovation and expansion of Eastman Theatre. In May, the new James P. Wilmot Cancer Center was dedicated, following the successful completion of a $42.5 million campaign. The building is the centerpiece of a five-year plan to make Wilmot a national leader in cancer care and research.
As we move forward with future plans for growth, we will monitor economic developments carefully. While the pace of implementation may be slowed, our ultimate goals remain unchanged. Working with the Board, my intent is to pursue a policy of “steady-aswe- go.” We have made substantial progress this year. I am optimistic that our momentum will accelerate in the years to come.
Joel Seligman