University Relations
March 14, 2008 Communique
Bruce Benson's Memo to Faculty, Staff and Students
Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,
I am honored today to assume the presidency of the University of Colorado. CU is a special place that changes lives, whether by providing a first-rate education or by engaging in research that makes our state and the world a better place.
The education I received at CU gave me a solid foundation for life and was a major factor in my success. I want to ensure that others have the same opportunity.
Since the Board of Regents named me president, I have met with Regents, President Brown, chancellors, faculty, staff and students to gain their insight. Meetings have also taken place with other college and university presidents and the leadership of the Colorado Department of Higher Education.
Governor Bill Ritter and I have met to discuss funding issues and how we can work together to move CU and all of higher education forward. I have met with several legislators, including all of the members of the Joint Budget Committee and leadership from both sides of the aisle.
As you know, CU and higher education in Colorado face significant funding issues. Part of addressing them will require that we enhance our efforts to convey our value to the people of Colorado. As the university’s chief spokesman, I intend to learn about our strengths so I can share them with Coloradans. To that end, I will make regular visits to each campus to meet with faculty, students, staff and community members. I will also ask the chancellors to arrange a series of research briefings over the next several months so I can be well versed on all CU’s major research initiatives.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the University of Colorado. I look forward to working with you to ensure that we continue to fulfill the promise of this great university.
Sincerely,
Bruce D. Benson
President