When you look around campus these days, you see incredible, exciting advances: the opening of the “new” Memorial Hall, home to our business and accounting programs; the innovation and academic achievements in our classrooms, labs and learning centers; and the awarding of almost $1.4 million in scholarships to our deserving students this year.

None of these things just happened. They were all possible because of the commitment and vision of our faculty, students, administration and contributors like many of you. Each step forward took place because someone believed – and took action.

There is perhaps no greater evidence of this than the significant accomplishments we have seen within our Imagine Tomorrow campaign. By the end of November, we had passed an initial $35 million goal and were setting our sights even higher. This historic achievement is making enrollment at Bemidji State a possibility for hundreds more students each year.

That’s important. To maintain and grow BSU as a viable, comprehensive, regional university, we need to continue to be responsive to our students and their needs. Our students are changing, as is the environment in which they learn. And, for many, the dream of pursuing higher education is complicated by busy lives, affordability and the reality of juggling work and family responsibilities.

Understanding this, we know there is still work to be done. We need to tell the BSU story more widely and give voice to our advocates. We need to grow partnerships between BSU and our business community, further diversify our funding and be responsive to the emerging needs of our university. In other words, we need to continue on this path of positive growth and change.

As we look back at the past year, we want to thank everyone who has given their time, talent and financial contributions to Bemidji State University and the work it does. Together, we are making a difference. Together, we are changing lives.

Carol Russell ‘74

President

Bemidji State University Foundation