From the President

Dear Friends:

When I began to write this letter to our supporters, I considered how the grim events of the 2001-2002 year further defined the University’s mission and educational goals. Despite a troubling economic and political situation worldwide, AUB thrived with record enrollments, exciting developments in faculty research and teaching, and the adoption of a Master Plan that considers how to best carry out the University’s academic mission. These developments are significant not only to the institution, but also to Lebanon and the region.

Progress continues with 6,500 students enrolled in the 2002-2003 academic year — the largest student body in AUB’s history. These young men and women, who represent the future of the region, receive a liberal arts education that stresses critical thinking. AUB students are prepared to engage in any issue and discuss it with conviction and intelligence. They are encouraged to listen fairly to other points of view and to accept political and cultural differences in a complex world. I often marvel at the astuteness and conviction of our students, who embody the AUB spirit. We are committed to bringing as many highly qualified students as possible to our campus through the AUB financial aid program. Many have benefited, and would not have been able to attend otherwise – and we want those numbers to increase each year. AUB supporters, who are aware of the value of financial aid, contributed $2,391,918 in 2001-2002 to the scholarship fund.

The University has adopted a campus Master Plan in the belief that a strong infrastructure is necessary to further our academic mission over the next quarter century. You will be hearing much about the Master Plan, which was approved by the AUB Board of Trustees in March. Our facilities must keep pace with rapid changes in information technology. We must offer the most advanced laboratories, enhance student life, and accommodate student and faculty growth. This will be achieved through new building construction and renovations, while preserving the beauty of the AUB campus. The first step is underway with the selection of an architectural firm for the design of Charles W. Hostler Center. It will set the standard for future work to be implemented in accordance with the campus Master Plan.

Retaining and recruiting a good faculty remains a priority. Over 50 new faculty members, hailing from Lebanon, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, joined us in the 2001-2002 academic year. Research and collaborations continue to thrive in various interdisciplinary efforts such as the Energy Research Group and the Center for Advanced Mathematical Sciences. To further scientific research efforts, the University created the Central Science Research Laboratory for both faculty and graduate students to conduct their studies.

I believe there is a promise in higher education – and that it is being fulfilled at AUB. Support from our contributors allows us to make a difference not only in the lives of students, but also in Lebanon and in the region. As we embark on a new era of growth, I ask that you join us in the Campaign for Excellence. By 2006, AUB’s 140th anniversary, we plan to raise $140 million. This is a tremendous challenge and an ambitious goal, but is one that we believe possible – and necessary to sustain the University over the coming years. AUB should be without equal in the region, and the Campaign for Excellence will ensure that. However, the Campaign will only succeed with the continued participation of AUB’s many friends and supporters. Please join us in fulfilling AUB’s potential – and promise.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

John Waterbury
President

John Waterbury