Raising the Bar

By James Fagan

A new school year is in full swing, and the campuses of West Virginia University are alive with excitement and anticipation. It is times like these that I am reminded of the wonderful memories that I made here at WVU. When I enrolled at the University, I was just 17 years old and excited to be a member of the Mountaineer football team. No one could have prepared me for the effect that this University would have on me, and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.

As students, we found a place where we could find direction, take risks, make mistakes, and ultimately discover our talents. And most importantly, we formed lasting friendships and an intense loyalty to WVU that seems to grow stronger each year. For many of us, WVU was the first successful stop on our life's quest. The experiences and skills that we gained here have helped us in our careers as teachers, lawyers, engineers, broadcasters, and a host of other professions.

Today, WVU continues to raise the bar so that future students will have even more opportunities to succeed. The University has gained national recognition through its innovative degree programs and services provided to students. Enrollment has reached new highs, reinforcing what all of us already know-WVU is truly a place where greatness is learned. In addition, the outstanding faculty an

When you visit Morgantown, you will notice the changing landscape with the addition or expansion of several buildings on campus. These facilities will help meet the needs of students and faculty. Whether you are an alumnus, student, or friend of the University, it's an exciting time to be a Mountaineer.

As the gateway to the University for our more than 158,000 proud alumni, the WVU Alumni Association will continue to work to ensure that West Virginia University thrives and grows for generations to come. This year, our focus is on growing membership to record levels, enhancing our programs and services to reach alumni from all age groups and locations, strengthening our alumni chapters, and expanding opportunities for networking. In addition, we will continue to reward academic excellence through our scholarship programs. And, as always, we will be here for WVU- maintaining our steadfast commitment by supporting advocacy efforts, providing programs for current students, and recruiting the next generation of Mountaineers.
As students embark on the next leg of an incredible journey, we as alumni and friends will be there to support them and the University every step of the way. I hope you will join the WVU Alumni Association in spreading Mountaineer pride worldwide and help us preserve the wonderful traditions of West Virginia University.

Jim Fagan, a 1967 graduate, is a member of the Academy of Distinguished Alumni and is Chair of the Board of Directors for the WVU Alumni Association. He has been the voice of NBC sports promotions since 1989, including the Olympic games, NFL, and NBA, among others. Since 1991, he has been narrator and host of NBA Action, an internationally syndicated weekly show.

Fall 2004 Contents

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