Florida Tomorrow

September 27, 2007

“Florida Tomorrow: The Campaign for the University of Florida” – more than just a set of words, this theme for the effort to raise more than $1 billion is a rallying call to everyone associated with this university. The results of this capital campaign over the next five years are critical to what the future holds for this institution and everything that takes place here.

Just to be clear, the private funds generated by this campaign benefit every aspect of this university – students, faculty, staff, research, programs, facilities – everything. We are asking our alumni and friends to support UF so that all citizens of Florida and beyond will benefit from our efforts as faculty and staff at this great institution.

Each and every one of us should be able to complete these three statements: Florida Tomorrow is a place where … Florida Tomorrow is a day when … and Florida Tomorrow is a belief that …

These statements look into the future and will help you envision and articulate what you believe the University of Florida will be – tomorrow.

And “Florida Tomorrow” starts this week. You may have noticed the “Florida Tomorrow” banners hanging throughout the campus. This is to help bring attention to the official kickoff of the capital campaign. Many of you have helped develop more than 80 campus-wide “Showcasing the Possibilities” events and symposia planned for Friday. Thank you for your efforts that will give our alumni and friends a first-hand look at what we do. Details about the day can be found at the campaign site.

Thousands of alumni and friends will be visiting campus throughout the weekend, taking part in the campaign kickoff activities, as well as attending the Florida/Auburn football game. Let’s communicate to them that “Florida Tomorrow” is everyone’s campaign.

Around this campus and around the state, nation and world, UF is making a difference for everyone’s tomorrow.

J. Bernard Machen