In difficult times like these, we are fortunate to be graduates of Hamilton College. Our education provides a foundation of knowledge, personal values and sustaining friendships that endure. It was true when we were on the Hill. It is true today. Hamilton still fulfills the promise that students' dedication will be rewarded — their efforts will serve them well for a lifetime.
Unrestricted annual gifts provide the equivalent of one financial aid dollar out of four. Such alumni generosity enables Hamilton to support the brightest, most committed students and maintain its position at the fore of liberal arts education.
Our students and their families are facing financial challenges not seen just a year ago. This year the College has had to increase scholarship support above the budgeted $23 million for 44 students who demonstrated increased need. Even though Hamilton met that need from a budget reserve, other financial pressures make clear that the College can ill-afford not to meet the Annual Fund goal this year. Your continued generosity is more critical than ever.
Fortunately, Hamilton approaches this new fiscal reality from a position of strength. The College has done everything it can to find scholarship funds in its existing operating budget — curtail spending, limit hiring and delay a number of major projects. But the College's world-class programs and facilities must be maintained. To avoid further cuts that may also undermine Hamilton's mission, the College is turning once again to its alumni for help in increasing scholarship funding. I hope you are able to make an increased commitment this year.
Please consider joining me and thousands of other alumni who have already made their gifts to Hamilton this fiscal year. In so doing you will help, as your fellow alumni donors have, to ensure our College's continued strength. It's who we are.
Carissima,
George Baker '74
Chairman, Hamilton College 2008-09 Annual Fund
Chairman, Hamilton College 2008-09 Annual Fund
