TULANE TALK

December 8, 2006

Good Morning:

I am glad so many of you were able to attend Wednesdayís dedication of the Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life. As I said at the dedication, it was great to see a celebration taking place at a spot I can remember floating past in a rescue boat a little more than 15 months ago.

How things have changed. If you have not been inside this beautifully designed, state-of-the art building yet, prepare to be dazzled. Completely new and yet also familiar, this captivating space is ready to be filled up with new memories. The Lavin and Bernick families’ generosity made this dream a reality. The entire Tulane community will forever be grateful to them.

This weekís dedication served as a perfect opportunity to re-launch ìPromise and Distinction: The Campaign for Tulane.î Publicly announced just months before Katrina, ìPromise and Distinction,î like everything else, was put on hold after the storm so we could focus on Tulane’s recovery.

Now is the time to move forward toward the campaignís goal of a Tulane that is universally recognized as one of the truly pre-eminent research institutions in America. That potential is within our sight and grasp. We have already raised over $600 million toward our goal of $700 million by June 30, 2008. Every day more and more people are joining us in creating out of the tragedy of Katrina a stronger and more purposeful Tulane. This campaign will allow us to attract and retain the very best people who are the heart of a great university. Through gifts to the endowment, and for facilities and program support, we can provide an environment for the best and brightest to thrive.

Please visit the website http://distinction.tulane.edu/ to re-acquaint yourself with our priorities and goals and see how far we, with your help, have come in realizing our promise and distinction.

Have a great weekend,