1999 Annual ReportOctober 1999 Dear Friends,
In almost all respects, the last year has been a great one for the University. Enrollment is at an all-time high. There is strong evidence of great results on our ongoing goal of excellence in teaching and learning. The Susquehanna 2000 capital campaign goal, which was increased substantially by the Board of Directors less than a year ago, has already been exceeded. The endowment has continued to grow impressively. Our new Business and Communications Building opened just in time for the start of this semester, albeit with a few features -- such as the outside doors -- still to be completed. Likewise, the newly renovated and expanded Smith Hall, with its new third floor and pitched roof, was ready -- just barely -- for the arrival of the talented Class of 2003. The Kresge Foundation gave Susquehanna highly coveted recognition and support by committing a $1 million challenge grant that is spurring the final stages of fundraising for major enhancements to the University's sports and fitness facilities to be completed by the fall of 2001. However, this good news is tempered by sadness over the deaths of people who have made a tremendous difference at Susquehanna. They include Vi Messerli, the highly dedicated First Lady of the University from 1977 to 1984, who died after a valiant battle with cancer, and Dr. Claude Buss '24, the world-renowned diplomat and scholar, who died at age 94, just after finishing work on a final scholarly book. On the second day of this semester, Dr. Gene Urey, long-time, highly respected political science faculty member and pre-law advisor, died after collapsing in class. Charles B. Degenstein's death at age 92 last November was a sad and historic moment for the University community. Mr. Degenstein's extraordinary generosity brought Susquehanna major new endowments and buildings. For generations to come, Susquehanna students will be indebted to this wonderful gentleman, philanthropist, and friend. We give heartfelt thanks for all the contributions in so many ways of those who are no longer with us and to all of you who are. The part that each of you -- Susquehanna's alumni, friends, faculty, students, board members and volunteers -- play in the life of this academic community is deeply valued. Thank you. Sincerely,
Joel Cunningham
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