Excitement and change is in the air as we begin a new academic year. While ASU takes on new vision and new direction from President Michael Crow, I want to acknowledge, and sincerely thank Lattie Coor for the important leadership he delivered. We look forward to working with him in his new role. Clearly, during the past decade our institution has been magnificently positioned. Thanks Lattie. Going forward, the Arizona Board of Regents recognized the need for a leader who could do more than hold that position, and on behalf of all ASU alumni, I congratulate their selection of Michael Crow. I believe his vision and skill sets are an ideal mix to drive ASU forward. Furthermore, President Crow tells me of his commitment to alumni and his recognition of our extreme importance to the future of this university.

It is equally important that the alumni understand their significance and become involved. The university has helped each of us elevate ourselves, and in my view the right thing to do is reciprocate. A recent study revealed that, on average, college graduates earn 70 percent more than those without college degrees. There is real, measurable value to our degrees. Please join me and share in the responsibility to acknowledge that value by supporting our alma mater and those who follow us. Among the best ways we can give back is through membership in the Alumni Association. The annual dues of $45 offer an affordable way to help build ASU's reputation.

As the vice president for Public Affairs and Government Relations for Pinnacle West Capital Corporation and Arizona Public Service Company, I understand ASU's importance to the state's economy and social fabric. It is that significance that drives Pinnacle West to contribute to ASU with both dollars and resources. I hope we share the same understanding: investment in ASU benefits all of us.

So as we look forward to this new academic year, let's look forward to a new spirit of investment in ASU. There is a membership form on the inside-back cover of this issue, or you can call 1-800-ALUMNUS. Please choose to make a difference and become an ASU Alumni Association member today. I am a hands-on guy and want to work with all, so if you have suggestions to help us improve our Association and build membership, please give me a call at (602) 250-2866. And yes, I am in the Phoenix phone book.

Martin Shultz '66, '67 M.Ed.
Chairman, ASU Alumni Association

ASU continues commitment to diversity

In this issue you will read about the African-American tradition at Arizona State University. For more than 80 years, the institution has welcomed people of all colors. Unfortunately, there were many circumstances African-American students had to endure in the early part of the century that are unthinkable today. Because of their perseverance, higher education, and society in general, have become much more accepting.

Today the cultural diversity at ASU is greater than ever. More than one-fifth of the student body enrolled at all the university's campuses is made up of ethnic minorities. ASU continues to be among the most culturally diverse universities in the United States.

You will read about a program on page 10 of this issue, the Community Alliance for Black Student Support, that aims to elevate the numbers of African-Americans being graduated from the university. Simultaneously, efforts are under way at ASU to help level the playing field for all minority groups. From recruitment programs targeting high school students to retention efforts like the program mentioned above, ASU is committed to ensuring opportunities for higher education are available to everyone.

Although we still have progress to make before equality is truly the standard, it makes me proud that our alma mater has played a leading role in breaking the color barrier.

Susan Dolbert '74, '80 M.A., '94 Ph.D.
President & Executive Director, ASU Alumni Association

Martin Shultz '66, '67 M.Ed.
Chairman, ASU Alumni Association

Susan Clouse Dolbert '74, '80 M.A., '94 Ph.D.
President & Executive Director, ASU Alumni Association