The preparation of this Convocation address affords me a variety of opportunities, not the least of which is an ideal time for pausing in reflection and anticipation. I am reminded of the many successes enjoyed by the faculty, staff and students of Radford University (RU) during the 1998-99 academic year. These accomplishments, too numerous for this address to fully encompass, resulted from your tireless effort and irrepressible optimism. They grow out of a strong institutional resolve wherein the common good transcends personal ambition.

These eight priorities, set forth in our University's strategic plan, are in concert with the Commonwealth of Virginia's emphases on quality, access, affordability and accountability:

1. Increasing student enrollment, progression and graduation

2. Enhancing the quality of student life and stimulating social development

3. Strengthening existing academic programs and activities

4. Expanding the curriculum to provide innovative academic programs and activities

5. Upgrading and maintaining physical resources and facilities

6. Ensuring careful fiscal planning and thorough, efficient management

7. Increasing financial support through fundraising and conservation of resources

8. Enhancing internal and external relations

Our priorities are addressed within the context of the University's mission and vision. Every priority is operationally defined through performance objectives which are, in turn, subsumed by carefully designed strategies and action plans. Progress toward each performance objective is ascertained by continuous, rigorous evaluation. So, RU's strategic plan is a living document to be systematically updated. It provides a multi-year focus for our endeavors and serves as a compass to guide the University as its future unfolds. Therefore, the planning process is of utmost importance insofar as it aims to preserve the best of what we do, yet seeks to reveal innovative approaches that link emerging aspirations with future opportunities.

In that regard, I hope that my message to you this afternoon will serve to illustrate the strides we have made relative to our priorities during the recent year, and illuminate some of the steps yet to be taken toward fulfilling our University's mission.

Increasing Student Enrollment, Progression, and Graduation

Providing access to higher educational opportunities for a growing number of student applicants remains a high priority. Radford University is meeting the challenge.

Applications from new freshmen increased by 6.2% over those of 1998. Next week, Radford University (RU) anticipates enrolling its largest freshman class in five years. At the undergraduate level, the number of minority and international students increased from 649 in the Fall of 1996, to 735 in the Fall of 1998, and minorities now represent over 10% of the total undergraduate student population for the first time in RU’s history. Rates of student retention and progression toward graduation have increased markedly over the past few years and place RU among the top schools in the southern region on these indicators of institutional effectiveness. The academic preparedness of entering freshmen has also shown positive change in each of the past five years. The acceptance rate for new freshmen has decreased from 90.7% in 1994 to 76.6% in 1998. These data indicate that while the University promotes access to educational opportunities, it is likewise emphasizing academic standards. Median SAT scores have increased from 940 to 980 during the same time period, while high school grade point averages have increased from 2.60 to 2.94. By increasing the funds available for merit scholarships, RU is attracting a higher number of artistically and academically talented students.

Our University is an undisputed leader in promoting postsecondary school attendance among residents of Southwest Virginia. RU’s participation in the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon brings three professional graduate programs (counselor education, educational leadership, and social work) to an area with critical social service needs. Over the past four years, total enrollment at the Abingdon location has increased by 217%, from 142 to 450 students. At the Graduate Center in Roanoke, the University offers two attractive degree programs--business administration and criminal justice. A special RU partnership with Virginia Western Community College (VWCC) is bringing a number of undergraduate programs to the Roanoke Valley region, including criminal justice, nursing, business administration and social work. The total number of enrolled students increased from 596 in 1997 to 844 in 1998 at the VWCC location, and from 103 to 221 at the downtown Roanoke Graduate Center.

Students participate in a number of innovative living/learning programs dedicated to integrating RU’s academic experiences into the residence halls. Several residence halls’ programs have been centered around various themes such as military science, performing arts, diversity awareness, and technology. Trinkle Hall serves as the living/learning center for both freshmen and upper class visual and performing arts students, and Pocahontas Hall houses the University’s Honors Academy. In fall of 1999, all new freshmen will participate in such an environment. Over 75% of freshmen participate in University 100 seminars, which provide new students with tools and guidance toward academic, social, and personal success at RU. Economically disadvantaged students and those with disabilities receive special attention. Our University offers innovative programs that result in their academic success and graduation. Such programs have contributed to substantial increases in the retention rate from the freshman to the sophomore level for all students. That rate is now at 74%, which exceeds the national average and ranks RU fifth among its national benchmark institutions. Likewise, our University’s graduation rate as reported in U.S. News and World Report is 56%, compared to an average of 45% for its reference group institutions.

Enhancing the Quality of Student Life and Stimulate Social Development

RU lives up to its reputation as a "student-centered" university. Every aspect of its educational program reflects the fact that students are its highest priority and most important asset. "Investing in Lifetimes," the University's new motto, is more than a catchy slogan. It captures the spirit and guiding principles of our University.

The RU campus provides an ambience that reinforces wholesome living and learning. Few issues affecting student life on today’s campuses have aroused more national and state concern than the abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs. For the second consecutive year, RU has set the pace among its sister institutions in attacking this problem in cogent, constructive ways. In fact, at this University, the large majority of its students have proven themselves to be a part of the solution rather than the problem. RU led the Commonwealth of Virginia in developing and submitting, to the Office of the Attorney General, a Plan to Reduce Binge and Illegal Drinking. Last year, ours was Virginia’s first University to adopt a policy of parental notification if a student is cited for violations of its alcohol or substance abuse policy. Students were also surveyed in spring of 1999 to secure attitudinal information on substance abuse in order to improve counseling services. The helpfulness of their views is reflected in the fact that the number of violations decreased by more than half of that for the previous semester.

At RU, intercollegiate athletics not only assist in building character, they also stimulate school spirit and pride. This year, our student athletes extended their record of success as evidenced by their winning records and impressive academic performance. As a group, student athletes achieved a grade point average (GPA) of 2.7, while five teams attained a GPA higher than 3.0. The women’s basketball team, with a GPA of 3.3, ranked fourth in the nation among NCAA Division I institutions. On the playing field, the Women’s Soccer team won its first Big South Conference title, and the Men’s Soccer team went undefeated in Conference play. The Men’s Basketball team advanced to the final game for the championship of the Big South Conference, and the Women’s Gymnastics team broke several individual and team records to qualify for the national USA Gymnastics meet.

The University’s Career Services Center posted another banner year. Over 400 employers and 2,650 students attended four on-campus career fairs and employment programs. The Class of 1998 reported the highest employment rate in 21 years, with nearly 97% of its graduates employed or admitted to a graduate or professional school within six months after graduation.

Senior survey results indicated that the already high level of students’ satisfaction with the campus and its services continues to increase. Nearly 98% of students indicated that they are pleased with their overall experiences at RU.

Strengthening Academic Programs and Promoting Scholarship

Radford University offers some 112 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs. Moreover, the effective use of innovative instructional methods and materials will see that these exemplary programs remain on the cutting edge in the 21^st Century.

In order to retain and reward its most outstanding faculty, RU established a new category of professional attainment that is designated as "Distinguished Professor". These scholars offer the University unique talents that are impossible to replicate or replace. The first group selected for this high honor is comprised of past recipients of the Outstanding Faculty Awards from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). They include Geology Professor Chester "Skip" Watts; Foreign Languages and Literatures Professor Leonor Ulloa; and Director of the Appalachian Regional Studies Center, Grace Edwards.

Continuous self-evaluation is fundamental to quality assurance. Last spring, the College of Education and Human Development received its five-year continuing accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The Department of Leisure Services also completed a self-study report, hosted a successful on-site accreditation visit, and earned its reaccreditation.

Through the University’s international education program, all colleges collaborated to sponsor a year-long program of lectures, performances, symposia, and conferences to strengthen international and intercultural awareness. New Study Abroad programs were developed, sending RU students across the globe from France to Venezuela. A new International Commerce and Trade minor was developed by the College of Business and Economics, and the International Studies minor was substantially enhanced. Through several planning sessions with Dr. Robert Trent (Director General of the American School in Guadalajara, Mexico) a partnership was developed to include student and faculty exchange programs with RU.

Expanding the Curriculum to Include Innovative Academic Programs and Activities

Radford University is committed to the development of its Centers of Excellence, thus enhancing its best programs across the entire curriculum.

RU is introducing a formal process in which practical, reality-based educational experiences beyond the classroom are becoming a part of each student's academic program. The University is placing increased emphasis on experiential learning opportunities through internships and service learning. For example, internships among College of Business and Economics majors increased by 14% last year.

Thoughtful expansion of the curriculum is central to RU’s mission. Thanks to a generous private donation, the College of Arts and Sciences will initiate a Chinese program in fall 1999. This exciting new program will include instruction in elementary Mandarin, study abroad in China, and courses in the history, art, and culture of China. An innovative collaboration between RU and Virginia Tech will permit students to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from RU in three years, followed by a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Tech in two additional years. Plans have also been developed for two new programs in the School of Allied Health (occupational and physical therapy) and a doctoral program in School Psychology. These timely new degree programs will be submitted for approval at the state level.

A new state-of-the-art multimedia technology facility has been constructed in the University’s McConnell Library. The Center features nine computer workstations and an array of the latest software.

Upgrading and Maintaining Physical Resources and Facilities

Radford University has long been recognized for its stately, well-preserved facilities. Upgrading and maintaining buildings and grounds are crucial to preserving a campus environment that is attractive, functional, and conducive to learning.

Last fall, the Walker Hall Technology Center was installed, providing students and faculty with a multi-purpose, centralized computing facility that is available for use from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Last fall, RU dedicated its newest academic facility, the International Education Building. This $5.1 million academic building provides 36,200 square feet of instructional space, including state-of-the art technology classrooms and conference space. Last spring, the Board of Visitors, state legislators, and University administrators broke ground for the construction of Waldron Hall, the $7.5 million home for the Waldron College of Health and Human Services. The Commonwealth’s 1999-2000 biennial budget appropriation included funding in the amount of $600,000 for planning the complete renovation of Peters Hall to house the College of Education and Human Development. Once the design is completed, a capital budget appropriation of approximately $10 million will be requested to complete this major renovation project.

Since its dedication in 1997, the RU Foundation’s Selu Conservancy has been a focal point for retreats by University personnel, community business leaders, professional groups, governmental agencies and public schools. The University is finalizing the design for the construction of a science facility to accommodate an environmental sciences research laboratory and observatory. This facility will include multi-purpose space to further accommodate conferences, retreats, and special events. Reconstruction of the property’s old farmhouse is also supported by a $100,000 CE Richardson Foundation grant. The house will serve as an Appalachian Living History Museum, supporting RU’s Appalachian Regional Studies Center.

RU has completed a comprehensive landscape design. Implementation of this five-year, $500,000 project will transform one of the Commonwealth’s most beautiful campuses into a source of even greater pride.

Over the past year, RU has been planning another initiative that could expand its already significant influence in stimulating our region’s economic growth. This plan calls for RU’s establishment of a Southwest Virginia Center for Economic Development. University staff is exploring with Saint Albans Hospital officials the feasibility of co-locating the Center at their 90-acre site approximately two miles from the University.

Ensuring Careful Fiscal Planning and Thorough Efficient Management

Radford University’s continued success in implementing its strategic plan is, in large part, a function of its conservative, efficient management of financial resources.

For the tenth consecutive year, RU met the demanding Standards for Financial Management in Virginia, indicating a continuing record of fiscal integrity and efficient management. The University is also progressing on schedule with its Y2K compliance plan.

Increasing Financial Support Through Fund Raising and Conservation of Resources

First and foremost, a public institution must rigorously steward its use of resources in its daily operations. As critical to RU's future, however, is its ability to attract extra-mural funding through gifts, grants, and contracts.

The RU Foundation is in the final year of its first-ever Capital Campaign, Investing in Lifetimes. As of May 1999, it had raised more than $20.5 million toward a $22 million goal. The goal was increased from $21 million in response to a $500,000 challenge grant award from the Kresge Foundation.

Seven years after graduating from RU in 1976, R. J. Kirk co-founded a company called General Injectables and Vaccines, Inc. (GIV). He built GIV into a powerhouse in the pharmaceuticals industry with annual sales in the $118 million range. He felt it was the "most mature" of his various enterprises, and he and his ownership team sold GIV in 1998. On the heels of the GIV sale, Mr. Kirk gave his Alma Mater $1 million—the largest gift RU has ever received from an alumnus. Mr. Kirk decided to support the capital campaign with a major gift in appreciation for the exceptional opportunity RU provided him in the 1970’s and the remarkable educational advantages it continues to offer its students.

In addition to the Capital Campaign’s progress, RU has maintained its annual giving program and, for the fifth consecutive year, surpassed $3 million in annual gifts with a record 6,734 donors. The faculty/staff campaign raised $126,000, an increase of 43% over last year. Gifts from parents reached an all time high, with a record 1,188 parent donors contributing more than $61,000, as compared with $44,000 last year.

During the fiscal year 1998-99, 77 federal grants totaling more than $3 million were awarded to RU, as compared with $1.3 million in fiscal year 1995-96. The National Science Foundation awarded the University the first-year installment on a five-year science reform project under the direction of Drs. Franklin Jones and Preston Durrill. The project will serve elementary school faculty, administrators and students in the Cumberland Plateau Regional Planning District of the Appalachian Region of Virginia. A total of $1,932,000 is expected over the five-year project, representing the largest grant ever received by the University. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded a grant of $514,910 which will enable RU to continue and expand its Family Nurse Practitioner Program. In addition, RU was awarded $350,604 for the fourth year of the Training and Technical Assistance Center for Personnel Serving Students with Disabilities. This collaborative initiative with Virginia Tech is contracted through the Virginia Department of Education. RU’s funding for the project has increased each year, totaling $904,066 over the first four years.

Enhancing Internal and External Relations

RU is ranked by U.S. News and World Report among the top 25% of comprehensive universities in the South. Through carefully designed strategies, we are continuously reaffirming our University's good name and making certain that we seize upon every opportunity to herald its accomplishments.

RU’s Public Relations Department, in partnership with the campus community, remains active in disseminating information regarding the University’s substantial current work and continued significant progress. Over the past year, RU was featured in a front-page story in The Roanoke Times on the University’s state budget appropriation request. The University was also showcased in the half-hour television program "Excellence by Choice," which is carried by Washington D.C.’s educational access channel and targets prospective students. "The Great Nest of Life," a mammoth nest of brush and straw created by RU student Mark Rogers, was installed on the lawn of the White House for the annual Easter celebration, and received both local and national media attention, including a story in The New York Times and The Richmond Times-Dispatch. Likewise, RU’s new parental notification program to curb drug and alcohol abuse was featured in numerous media outlets including The Roanoke Times, the Washington Post, the Virginia News Network, the Virginian-Pilot, WSLS-TV, and USA Today.

In keeping with its belief that a university and its locale should be interdependent and mutually helpful, RU is dedicated to serving the City of Radford and Southwest Region of Virginia with a number of programs and facilities. One such endeavor is the Business Assistance Center (BAC), which has acquired more than $300,000 in grants and contracts. The BAC is directly responsible for the creation of more than 500 area jobs. Moreover, it has provided the business community with access to more than 15,000 hours of faculty and student expertise, as well as technical assistance to over 500 businesses. The services of the BAC have been credited with increasing sales by more than $15 million and securing over $13 million in new capital.

The annual Highlander Festival held during Homecoming Weekend drew more than 7,000 alumni, students, and visitors. The Festival, a joint venture between RU and the City of Radford, featured 14 Scottish clans and 45 vendors, Scottish sports competitions, a parade, soccer games, live musical entertainment, dancing, and refreshments.

The University is also a major economic force in the region, attracting more than 100,000 visitors each year. The economic impact of the University on the local community exceeds $40 million annually. The campus serves as a site for conferences, demonstrations, athletic contests, visual and performing arts events, and festivals, most of which are sponsored or hosted by the University. In addition, RU supports the local community through its highly regarded speakers bureau and thousands of hours of student and faculty volunteer service. It also provides an infusion of artistic and cultural events through its art museum, theatrical and musical productions, and appearances by nationally acclaimed guest artists and lecturers.

I, too, maintain an active public speaking schedule that affords me an abundance of opportunities to represent the University and project its image in other venues. Recently, for example, I delivered keynote addresses at the annual conferences of the Association of American Schools of Latin America in Monterrey, Mexico and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in Atlanta, Georgia. I also continue to expand my memberships on governing boards of numerous businesses, professional and civic organizations. Last year, I accepted invitations to serve on the Boards of Directors for the Art Museum of Western Virginia, Virginia’s Manufacturing Extension partnership, the National Student Conservation Association, and the Holding Company of the First National Bank Corporation. These relationships tend to heighten the public’s awareness and support of RU.

In Conclusion