Geoff Gamble Greetings alumni and other friends, Summer is a time in the Gallatin Valley when it is easy to focus on MSU's spectacular setting. However, while we are proud of and grateful for our beautiful surroundings, we have recently put a lot of effort into identifying those aspects of our university that go well beyond our location to make this such a remarkable university. Namely, our nationally and internationally recognized scholars, our leading research, our student-centered campus and the hands-on active learning environment. Why should high-ability, goal-oriented students select Montana State University? In a word, opportunity. Our commitment to integrating research experiences into each student's academic work is a unique promise. Beginning this fall with the introduction of our new core curriculum, Core 2.0, all of our students will have hands-on, active learning experiences. This approach to structuring the general education requirements for all undergraduates will help to prepare our students to become qualified, knowledgeable and ethical professionals. One of the best demonstrations of the quality of our academic programs is the accomplishments of students and faculty. Once again MSU students have been awarded prestigious Goldwater and sizeable National Science Foundation Scholarships. Our faculty continues to attract record amounts of research dollars -- an estimated $91 million in fiscal year 2004. Those dollars go well beyond covering research costs. The money also pays for student lab equipment and student researchers' and teaching assistants' salaries...and the money cycles through both the Bozeman and statewide economies. We are currently developing strategies for better promoting what we offer our students. Soon we will unveil a new graphic identity and set of core messages, which will emphasize what we've known for years: MSU will be recognized as the premier land-grant research university in the Rocky Mountain region. Your accomplishments are one of the great strengths of MSU. You can help us spread the word about MSU by telling friends and neighbors what this university has to offer. Thank you for helping to enhance the reputation of our university and for helping us carry our message throughout Montana and beyond. Hoping you enjoy the best of the summer ahead, Geoff Gamble President, Montana State University