My warmest welcome - to students, parents, faculty, staff, trustees, alumni, industry and government affiliates, and everyone who is a member of our global Rensselaer community.

In particular, I send my greetings to prospective students who are now considering enrollment at Rensselaer. I know that you will be challenged in the months ahead to sort through a tremendous amount of information before ultimately choosing the right school for you. Let me assure you, this is an outstanding technological university and a vibrant community - an exceptional place to learn, grow, and cultivate your talents.

Rensselaer today is engaged in bold initiatives to achieve new prominence as a top tier technological research university with global reach and global impact. Guided by the Rensselaer Plan, we are pursuing ambitious efforts to significantly increase our research activity, with particular focus on biotechnology and information technology.

In addition, we are committed to enhancing the student experience and expanding the scope of campus discourse. In early 2001 we received a transformational gift of $360 million from an anonymous donor. It is a tremendous vote of confidence in Rensselaer, in its plans for the future and for the bold initiatives under way. Two new facilities will advance our priorities. One is a biotechnology and interdisciplinary studies center that will greatly expand our research portfolio. The second is an experimental media and performing arts center that will enable us to significantly enrich the campus experience.

Sustained by a truly unique 175-year tradition of excellence in education, the Rensselaer mission and vision have never been more relevant - on a global scale - than they are today. We look forward to the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead.