Colorado Mesa University

More than a decade ago, we embarked on a bold, new vision for Colorado Mesa University — to be one of Colorado's preeminent public institutions of higher education that is respected for the quality of its graduates and the difference that it makes for the region and the state. As we celebrate the university's 90th anniversary, I can proudly report to you that CMU is thriving. In a time of diminishing state support and increased competition for both top students and expert faculty members, we're realizing this bold vision. Today, we attract better-prepared students from across the county and are beginning to extend that reach across the globe. (You can read more about this on page 16.) This fall, we welcomed 15 new, full-time faculty members to our already impressive ranks, which include graduates from some of the most noted universities in the country. Our students experience higher education at its best — a student- focused environment where collaboration with expert faculty is commonplace and is supported by cutting-edge technology and great facilities. As you'll read in this issue, the Maverick family is making a difference in communities near and far — giving of their time and talent in varied ways. Our donors are making a real and lasting impact on the lives of our students. Our administrators and staff are working tirelessly to contain costs, ensuring that CMU delivers on its promise of providing a top-quality education at an attainable price. Yet we won't rest on our laurels. Constant improvement and innovation are required to ensure we deliver on this promise for generations to come. And advancement comes at a real cost. This fall, we're embarking on the next phase of our strategic planning process, which will guide us for the next several years. I invite you to give back to CMU. Offer us your ideas on how the university could be more effective and efficient. Show your support through a modest gift to a scholarship program. Tell us how you're giving back and making a difference as a proud alumnus or alumna. Together, we'll ensure that CMU is poised for success for another 90 years. Sincerely, Tim Foster, President Colorado Mesa University FALL 2015 VOLUME 5.1 President Tim Foster Executive Director of Marketing and Public Relations Kimberly Williams Director of Marketing and Publications Michael Mansheim Editor Stephanie Summar Director of Media Relations Dana Nunn Senior Graphic Artist and Creative Projects Manager Jeremy Smith Graphic Artist and Creative Projects Coordinator Lisa Smith Director of Alumni Relations Rebecca McKenna Board of Trustees Betty Bechtel, Vice-Chair; Tilman Bishop; Kathleen Eck; Paula Herzmark; Jose D.L. Marquez; Ray Martinez; Douglas M. Price; Doug Quimby, Chair; Joan Ringel; Dan Robinson; Robert Wilson; Aparna Palmer, Faculty Trustee; Jake Carmin, Student Trustee C o p y r i g h t © 2 0 1 5 T h e M av e r ic k All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is strictly prohibited. C o l o r a d o M e s a U n i v e r s i t y 1 1 0 0 N o r t h Av e n u e G r a n d J u n c t i o n , C O 8 1 5 0 1 - 3 1 2 2 9 7 0 . 2 4 8 . 1 5 2 5 c o l o r a d o m e s a . e d u / m a v e r i c k m a v e r i c k @ c o l o r a d o m e s a . e d u STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY

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