3:49 p.m., Nov. 29, 2007--University of Delaware President Patrick Harker highlighted some of the University's assets, including its undergraduate research program, its study-abroad program, its business and technology partnerships and its cadre of successful and loyal alumni in a speech he gave Tuesday evening, Nov. 27, at the Rehoboth Beach Country Club in Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Addressing an audience of more than 200 UD alumni and guests from throughout central and southern Delaware, Harker outlined some short- and long-term goals for the University, shared his ideas on how they might be reached and sought input from those gathered at the event.
“The school spirit at UD is terrific,” Harker said, “and that is one thing I want to comment about tonight. But I also want to share with you my hopes for where this University is going, and hear from you tonight about your hopes and expectations and your dreams for the University's future. You are an integral part of this institution, and we need your involvement.
“We have a great story to tell, and if we tell it well, we can move this University to true national and international prominence,” Harker emphasized, “but I need you to help spread that word. You--the alumni, parents and friends of the University of Delaware--are our best brand ambassadors.”
Harker said that as a key player in the regional economy, the University would continue doing its part to nurture partnerships with local industries, government and other educational institutions to explore ideas and think creatively about the opportunities for collaboration.
Harker, who was introduced by Shanté Hastings (EG, '00), president of the UD Alumni Association, was accompanied to the event by Tom Apple, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Michael Chajes, interim dean of the College of Engineering; Nancy Targett, dean of the College of Marine and Earth Studies; Monica Taylor, vice president for development and alumni relations; and representatives from the offices of development and alumni relations from both the Newark and Georgetown campuses.
Several guests said that meeting Harker in person was their primary goal for attending the event, especially after reading about his plans for UD in the Messenger and Wilmington News Journal.
“This is my first time seeing the president,” said Bruce Rogers (AS '83). “I have read about his plans--I think most alumni have--but one of the things that is nice about living in a small state is that college presidents, like politicians, take a personal approach and make the effort to circulate. In Delaware, residents like to 'see them, touch them and get to know them personally.'”
Hugh Martin (AG '54), trustee emeritus, said that he and his wife, Margaret Martin (CHEP '56), came to hear about the ongoing plans for partnerships and to share ideas with other alumni in a forum held expressly for that purpose.
“I have met the president before, at a reception last July,” Martin said, “and I've seen him at the football games, because we have seats next to his. We enjoy coming to these gatherings, because we see and get to speak with a lot of people loyal to UD--both alumni and trustees--who have a stake in its future.”
Charolette Skinner (HS '85) said that she and her husband, Albert Skinner (EG '51), enjoy their role in the University community (two of their sons also are UD alums) and look forward its next phase of growth.
“Being alums, we are both very interested in the University of Delaware,” Skinner said, “and we are excited about the changes it will undergo [under] the leadership and direction of President Harker.”
Article by Becca Hutchinson
Photos by Duane Perry