As the year comes to a close, I want to thank all of you who have given back to UT Dallas. We have seen tremendous growth with alumni participation and interest in getting involved and giving back. Our monthly "Thirsty Thursdays" are an occasion for casual networking and catching up with old friends. If you have not had the chance to attend, I encourage you to check the event calendar and join us at our featured location.

I have had the opportunity to speak with a number of alumni who have returned to campus to see how the landscape has changed, and each has expressed excitement about how it has grown. Several new buildings and structures are planned for the next two to five years, including a student housing living/leaning center; a student dining facility; a one-stop student services facility; a math, science and engineering center; an arts and technology building; and university village and shops. The campus skyline will be transformed, and I hope that you will take the time to come see it.

Finally, the Loyalty Fund dynamic Internet presentation received very positive feedback, and our phone-a-thon continues to be a great success. Student callers are busy contacting alumni to give them a chance to share thoughts about their past experiences and what they hope for the future of UT Dallas. Our callers enjoy speaking to you and comment frequently on how much they learn from each conversation.

This has been a very successful year and the time, talent and resources that you all have given helped make it happen. It is a wonderful place to be when you have alumni who care about their university and want to give back.

As Sir Winston Churchill said, "We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give." Thank you for all that you give to UT Dallas, and enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.

Kristin Ludwig, Ph.D.
Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving