Geoff Gamble Greetings, Alumni and Friends, and happy 2005. So much has happened at Montana State University this past year that we begin 2005 with every expectation of continued success. One key reason for this optimism is the on-going support of our alumni. I am especially pleased with your help in enhancing the visibility and image of the university. You serve as important ambassadors for us, and we appreciate how you help extend the reach of our story. One key part of our story is the quality of our faculty. This Collegian contains many examples of how our scholars support MSU's commitment to integrating research and teaching. I am very proud of the awards and recognition our faculty bring to MSU. Not only do these honors showcase the quality of our faculty, but they give us opportunities to talk about how we incorporate "real-world work" into the classroom. Bill Hiscock is one such example. At nearly any institution, a scholar like Bill--one who is receiving exclusive international science awards--could choose to hole up in a laboratory and build his vita. Instead, Bill, like so many MSU faculty members, has chosen to share his research work with undergraduates and provide them unparalleled access to the wonders of space education. Just as we support our students, we also support this fine community in which we live. MSU recently engaged in an important partnership with local officials, the Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce and public school system leaders to declare this valley as a community that welcomes peoples of all backgrounds. On Dec. 23, I was honored to represent MSU employees, students and alumni as one of many local groups to sign the "Welcoming Community Resolution," a declaration of our joint commitment to promote inclusiveness. The declaration summarizes many of the values we promote at the university: respect, unity and a welcoming spirit to all peoples. As we set our hopes high for 2005, I am again reminded of how fortunate we are to be part of MSU--an institution that advances knowledge, supports the people of Montana and is the beginning of a lifelong journey for so many young people. Sending best wishes to you in the new year, Geoff Gamble President, Montana State University