SFSU Magazine Winter 2005 President's Message

 

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SFSU President Robert Corrigan

 

A Message from President Corrigan

In reading this issue of SFSU Magazine, I am reminded of the speech Rep. Bill Thomas gave at his induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame in May. The chairman recalled the day he entered the Gym to enroll in classes and was struck by what he saw on the wall: a world-class high jump record held by alumnus Johnny Mathis. At the time, Thomas had no idea Mathis had once been a different kind of superstar, in Cox Stadium.

For Thomas, the record on the Gym wall confirmed that he had indeed chosen the right university for his education, a place where he was certain he would "see extremes and understand differences and be surprised by what people really were."

It seems almost every day I have a moment like this when I learn of the impressive and varied accomplishments on the part of our alumni, students, faculty or staff members -- and I am reminded of what a truly unique University I am privileged to lead.

As you'll learn from reading the cover story, the lessons learned on our campus have been carried to the top of Capitol Hill and as is the case with alumna Caroline Vaughan, profiled on page 15, to the top ranks of the United Nations. They've also been carried to key roles in our city government, proven by the attendees at San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom's state of the city address, held on campus.

While so many graduates go on to careers in public service, others volunteer their time to help those in need. I continue to be inspired by the stories of the generosity being shown to victims of the Gulf Coast hurricanes by our campus community and by alumni across the country.

As far as inspiration of the artistic kind, this issue includes several striking images captured by alumnus photographer Lyle Gomes. I also invite you to experience the arts on campus -- turn to the back of this magazine for a listing of upcoming concerts, exhibits and performances.

Wherever this issues finds you, near or far, I hope that you'll stay in touch -- in person or virtually. Our SF State News Web site, www.sfsu.edu/~news, offers links to the latest University news. And look for a continually updated online listing of our most distinguished alumni at www.sfsu.edu/~hotshots. As you learn more about San Francisco State, online and in this and future issues, perhaps you'll find your own moment of awe when someone surprises you with what they've been able to do.

Sincerely yours,

President's Signature

Robert A. Corrigan
President