President welcomes students, discusses budget setbacks

WELCOME BACK TO THE SPRING semester!

As we watched the inauguration of President Obama this week, the word “opportunityâ€Â kept coming to my mind.

I was struck by how Mr. Obama rose to the Presidency, so astutely taking advantage of the opportunities created by his own abilities and hard work, and by the opportunities presented by our nation̢۪s social and political evolution.

“Opportunityâ€Â is a watchword at Fresno State. As a university of opportunity, we provide the welcoming environment, excellent instruction and caring support services that encourage students of all backgrounds to thrive and succeed.

This is a great time for students to take advantage of the opportunities Fresno State offers to earn your degrees and achieve your career goals.

I told the faculty and staff at our spring assembly earlier this week that our nation, state and university face unprecedented economic challenges that trouble us also as individuals. But, I want to underscore that we have been making plans to meet these challenges for the past two years. We were not caught unaware by this situation and we will work together to move forward.

Our incredible team of administration, faculty and staff is committed to minimizing negative impacts and striving to keep our university strong, protect the academic mission and ensure that you, our students, continue to receive the excellent education to which you are entitled.

We do have good news as we start the semester: the new Madden Library will open Feb. 20.

Last month the state halted funding for thousands of building projects, including our library, which was on schedule to open in early February.

Because serving students is our No. 1 priority, we worked to make it possible to open the new north wing̢۪s collection level, first, second and third floors, as well as the renovated south wing. However, we̢۪ll have to open with sparse furnishings and equipment.

We̢۪ll also delay relocating the Learning Resource Center and Office of Student Disabilities and moving into the Harold Haak Administrative Center on the library̢۪s fourth floor until we get the state go-ahead.

I hope you̢۪ll join me at a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the library at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 19.

This semester, we̢۪ll also consult with students to begin the process for building a parking structure, potentially on the west end of campus. The project would be funded by a student parking permit increase and other ancillary revenues.

Plans are ready to construct the permanent University High campus just west of the Smittcamp Alumni House. Unfortunately, that project also is delayed until the state enacts a budget and funds are released.

Another project, Campus Pointe, is moving ahead. The developer expects a summer opening for the workforce housing complex you̢۪ve probably seen taking shape.

Last week’s excellent student participation in the “Extreme Makeover: Home Editionâ€Â project is a reminder of Fresno State’s ongoing volunteerism. Thank you for your continued community commitment.

As we start the new semester, I wish each of you the best in your academic pursuits and I urge you to take advantage of every opportunity available at Fresno State to reach your goals.

By President John D. Welty