Dear Alumni, Parents, and Friends,

On May 17, families beamed with pride as 418 seniors earned their diplomas and began the next phase of their lives. While many will pursue professional careers and graduate studies, others have embarked on a year of service with national and international service groups.

The need to serve throughout one's lifetime was both encouraged and celebrated by commencement speaker John M. Bridgeland, advisor to President Bush and director of USA Freedom Corps. "Today I am challenging the nation's colleges and universities to step forward, like Saint Anselm College already has, and look systematically at how their institutions are supporting service and civic engagement."

Mr. Bridgeland's words were not only inspirational and heartfelt, but directly connected to Saint Anselm college's mission to graduate men and women who go on to lead creative and generous lives. In addition to commencement ceremonies, I offer the following highlights from campus:

• The college recently launched its redesigned Web site, with new content and new technology making it faster and easier for you to connect with Saint Anselm College. The Web is also fast becoming our first line of communication with prospective students. If you haven't logged on lately, I encourage you to visit www.anselm.edu.
  
  
• On July 1, the college will welcome Marie A. George as our new executive vice president . Dr. George most recently served as vice president for institutional planning and effectiveness at the Jesuit University of Scranton, Pa. She will replace Gary Bouchard, who will return to the English faculty. While we look forward to Dr. George's arrival, I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of Dr. Bouchard over the last five years.
  
  
• The Campaign for Saint Anselm College continues its rapid pace and, as of this writing, totals $39.8 million towards its $50-million goal. A recent "challenge gift" of $250,000 from Trustee Richard Bready will add significant muscle to our Annual Fund. Mr. Bready's generous commitment will match any new or increased gift to the fund with emphasis on annual scholarships.
  
  
• 3,026 students have applied to Saint Anselm College for freshman admission, the largest number ever. Our goal is to enroll 570 students in the class of 2007. This year's group of high achieving students allows the college to increase selectivity and build its growing reputation as one of the best Catholic liberal arts colleges in the country. 
  
  
• White House operative Karl Rove made a rare public appearance at the college's N.H. Institute of Politics in May. National TV cameras were rolling as Saint Anselm students dominated the Q&A session, addressing issues that included the war in Iraq, the Patriot Act and the Republican National Convention.

While space permits me to highlight just a few of the many happenings on campus, I welcome your thoughts on any topic regarding the college. Please feel free to write or e-mail me directly at president@anselm.edu. I look forward to staying in touch. Please be assured of my continued prayers for you and your families.

Sincerely,

Jonathan DeFelice, O.S.B.
President