Every person receiving this issue of the Quarterly magazine has a connection to Illinois College. If you are a member of the alumni community like me, I hope you share my fond memories of campus — making lifelong friendships and learning through one-on-one guidance provided by professors invested in your future.

Although I’ve lived in Dallas, Texas, for nearly 40 years, I have maintained my connection to the College. Every time I am on campus, I am invigorated. Walking across the quad, meeting the faculty and staff and talking to students motivates me to help, and I am compelled to support the College because of what Illinois College did for me.

To close out this issue of the Quarterly which launches the public phase of our $50 million comprehensive campaign, I invite you to reflect on the stories you have read and find something that inspires you.

As a Trustee of Illinois College and Campaign Chair, I believe President Farley and her leadership team are focused on the right things to ensure the College’s long-term success. At the highest level, this campaign moves IC another step forward with a state-of-the-art campus and contemporary education that prepares students to contribute upon graduation.

A few years ago, my wife Lisa and I chose to pay tribute to two influential professors from my time at IC by establishing the Jack Mann and Fred Pilcher Physics and Mathematics Research Support Fund. Not only does this award honor the impact that these educators had on my life, it allows me to play a role in igniting that love of learning in future generations. My appreciation for Professors Mann and Pilcher deepens with each story I hear about today’s students as they use new lab equipment to perform cutting-edge research or travel to professional conferences to participate in their fields of study.

Others who have shared their stories in this issue have created scholarship funds to continue the legacies of loved ones who have passed or set up travel funds to encourage students to become global citizens with an understanding of other cultures. And many more still have shown their support with gifts toward an area of the College that they are passionate about to support athletics, world-class facilities, improved learning environments, life-defining experiences, faculty support, student scholarships and more.

Each of you can make a contribution to one of the areas of need outlined in this Campaign. While this issue of the Quarterly celebrates many of the large gifts made during the quiet phase of the Inspiring Achievement initiative, more than half of the total will likely come from donors who give regularly at the $1,000 or less level. Each of you can play a role in our success.

Attend an event to reunite with classmates or a former professor and to speak to current IC students to learn more about what they hope to achieve with your support.

I believe each of you can strengthen your connection to Illinois College through Inspiring Achievement and make a meaningful impact that serves one of the areas of need outlined in the Campaign. We have an exciting opportunity to build on the momentum of what is happening today at Illinois College. Together we can keep the College strong for the future with a dynamic and contemporary education that empowers students to make a difference in the world.