2018 FALL LC MAGAZINE

3 www.lycoming.edu As we enter the final year of the Campaign for a Greater Lycoming , it is important to note the strategic urgency of raising new funds for endowed and current use scholarships. The generosity of our donors is the lifeblood that allows Lycoming to fulfill its mission of competing for and recruiting talented and high-achieving students from across the United States and around the world. Our financial aid budget has grown by more than $8 million during the past five years — a 26 percent increase. The draw from restricted endowed scholarships covers only about $1.4 million. It is essential that we grow both endowed scholarships and current use scholarships so that we can remain competitive in recruiting exceptional students, not only by offering financial aid, but by making the investments that allow ongoing improvement in programs and facilities. Your support enables us to educate the next generation of leaders. Finally, I want to take a moment to celebrate the success of our most recent graduates. This year marked the most culturally diverse graduating class in the College’s history, with almost one-fourth of the class comprised of international students or domestic students of color. Throughout their academic careers, our students have proven to be accomplished young people who are curious, gritty, and determined. They enlivened our classrooms with their minds and words. They volunteered and extended a helping hand to others. They shared their artistic and musical talents. They competed for the College’s athletic teams. They led student organizations. These students have enriched the intellectual, social, and cultural life of the College. They have aspired to think deeply and act boldly — on campus and beyond. Today, we are proud to call them Lycoming Alumni. Congratulations, Class of 2018! Kent C. Trachte, Ph.D. President THINK DEEPLY. ACT BOLDLY. Throughout their academic careers, our students have proven to be accomplished young people who are curious, gritty, and determined . . . They have aspired to