Dear Alumni:

If you follow the news headlines, you know that the state of Maryland has a serious budget shortfall and that higher education is likely to be among the areas affected this year as state leaders work to balance the budget. I am sure you share my concern about how this will impact UMBC and our students.

The state's investment in UMBC over the past decade has been substantial, helping us to attract and retain talented faculty and students and to provide the courses, programs, services and facilities that make UMBC an honors university. State support also is a crucial factor in determining tuition and fees, as well as the availability of financial aid.

It is important for everyone who appreciates the value of a UMBC education to let elected officials know that continued support for higher education is vital. On February 20, UMBC alumni, students, parents, administrators, faculty and staff will gather for the annual Alumni Association Reception in Annapolis. This is an excellent opportunity to speak face-to-face with lawmakers about the programs and people that make UMBC an outstanding university worthy of continued investment.

I hope you will join us.

Sincerely,

President Freeman A. Hrabowski, III