An update from President J. Bernard Machen
Welcome back to the University of Florida
for spring semester '09!
We begin the New Year on a strong note. Our fall entering class had the highest-ever SAT and GPA scores. Our research programs are thriving, with several major grants announced in recent months, including a $5.3 million National Institutes of Health grant to the College of Dentistry. We continue to begin or finish major new additions to our campus such as the just-launched Hough Hall graduate studies building.
We have a lot to be proud of, but there is no question that 2009 will be a challenging year. With the state experiencing an unprecedented budget shortfall, we expect further belt-tightening. While we are committed to avoiding major changes this semester, we will need to make strategic choices in the future. Our guiding principle will be to focus on students and the university’s long-term mission of serving all Floridians.
Members of The Gator Nation have a long track record of making their best efforts, even when—make that especially when—times are tough. I am confident that this tradition will continue as we respond to the current budget challenges. With all of us working together, we can and will, emerge a strong, competitive and celebrated national university.
Have a terrific spring, and Go Gators!
Sincerely,
J. Bernard Machen
President