As you know, this has been a tough year economically for our nation.  It’s times like these that make us aware of the importance of what we have.  Times like these can also cause to come into sharper focus our awareness of the needs of those around us—and that’s a good thing.  Even though our budgets may be tightening, we realize the importance of helping others who are less fortunate, and the importance of helping ourselves by contributing to causes that are dedicated to making the world a better place. The University’s Hearts of Texas program is a wonderful opportunity for each of us to look into our heart and decide what is truly important.  Every day we have the privilege of coming to work at a place that is dedicated to creating new knowledge through our world-class teaching and research.  People’s lives improve because of what we do.  When I think about our work at the University, I’m reminded of the opening passages of Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, in which he describes how he borrowed an axe from his neighbor to build his cabin.  Thoreau states, “The owner of the axe, as he released his hold on it, said that it was the apple of his eye; but I returned it sharper than I received it.” We are good stewards of the things we have by making them work better for us and for anyone who is in need.  I invite you to join me in looking through the Hearts of Texas donation booklet and identifying organizations that have benefited you, your family, a co-worker, or anyone who is special to you.  I’m sure you’ll find several.  Please consider how you can return the axe sharper than you received it—how you can open your heart to those who need and deserve your contributions through these organizations. Your gift, no matter the size, is important.  Every gift builds a greater sense of community, and adds to the shared pool of kindness and consideration that lifts all of us up.  Together, we make a difference.

Thank you.

William Powers, Jr.

President