Dear Mr. Rodriguez and Halgren,

On behalf of the University Senate and the entire faculty at the University of Oregon, I wish to express my sincerely appreciation for this wonderful resolution in support of the University of Oregon faculty which has been passed by the Alumni Association. In the resolution, you graciously attest to the critical role faculty play in the lives of students in fostering lifelong connections of alumni to the University. Might I in turn assert that the Alumni Association, too, plays a vital role in the long-term strength and well being of the University. Just as faculty members devote their research, teaching, and service energies toward providing the best possible educational experience for their students, graduates of the UO, through the Alumni Association, devote countless hours of their time and effort as well as make substantial financial contributions in support of the continued recognition of the University as a premier institution of higher education.

In no small measure, the University owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the Alumni Association for the outstanding impact you have had in lobbying the legislature in support of higher education in general, and the UO specifically. Your alumni advocates have worked closely with our office of Government Affairs and with President Frohnmayer, and the entire University community is the better for those efforts.

I thank you for your eloquently expressed statements of support for the faculty, and I applaud your efforts in fostering continued strong relationships between the members of our University and the UO Alumni Association. It is with great pleasure that I present you both in turn with a very modest token our appreciation.