Arizona State University is continuing to build momentum as it evolves into the New American University. From the vision of the Arizona leaders who established the institution in 1885, through
the remarkable leadership that advanced it for the next 117 years, ASU's story unfolds today as a university with tremendous opportunities to drive this region to become competitive internationally -- a significant player in a global arena.

In this issue of ASU Vision you will find stories illustrating the immense range of the university's research and scholarship, from improving how we live at home to seeking signs of life on other planets. You may also recognize the presentation of these stories has changed as well. The new layout of the magazine is designed to reflect, not only the dynamic research under way at ASU, but also this university's commitment to excellence for the people of Arizona.

As ASU's research expands around the globe and reaches into the heavens, so do our opportunities and responsibilities at home -- the Phoenix metropolitan area and the state of Arizona. As a dynamic research university with an outstanding faculty, ASU plays a lead role in providing thought leadership and influence to help steer this still-evolving area. Our commitment to this place is rooted in the understanding that we cannot outgrow our reason for being. This university has always and will always be committed to the advancement of Arizona.

As you read through this issue, you'll find numerous examples of that commitment. From notes about ASU's efforts to improve K-12 education, to feature stories about how we can most effectively grow -- both economically and with regard to our physical setting.

Nurturing that growth begins with education. It is increasingly important for the entire state that Arizona's schools, from preschool through high school, achieve success. ASU will take a much stronger, more visible role in making a difference in the critically important agenda of making the state's public education system as strong as possible. We must aggressively lead these efforts.

As a state, we must be equally aggressive with our investments toward the creation of knowledge. During this time in our history, the knowledge gained at our universities holds the potential to redefine the economic backbone of Arizona. A feature story on page 10 of this issue discusses the importance of universities to the state's economic future. For Arizona to generate high-paying jobs and thriving businesses, all of its universities must be focused on certain key strengths.

As an already large and still growing region, the Valley of the Sun includes the sixth largest city and the fastest growing county in the U.S. It is culturally diverse, merging various newcomers with peoples who have lived here for thousands of years. We must recognize the significant information and wisdom already learned here and embrace, learn from and build on that knowledge.

ASU scholars and scientists from various disciplines have studied Phoenix's growth for decades and built tremendous knowledge about its rapid urbanization. Understanding that their research has meaningful applications around the world, ASU established the Consortium for the Study of Rapidly Urbanizing Regions. A feature story on page 18, discuses how, through the consortium, the university brings together academics, policy makers, practitioners and the public so the world might benefit from lessons already learned in the Valley of the Sun.

The communities ASU serves have dynamic potential, and ASU is the ideal molding force to help realize that potential. I have mentioned just a few of the ways your alma mater is working to build a brighter future for people here in Arizona and throughout the world. I encourage you to stay abreast of all that is happening at ASU. Please take the time to stay connected. As alumni you are part of the ASU story, and we are making a difference.

Sincerely,
Michael M. Crow
President, Arizona State University

President Michael Crow

Board Letter