I am filled with gratitude.

A few weeks ago, Pam and I met our first grandchild. I was excited to be sure, but the experience meant even more than I expected. Surrounded by family, I held my precious granddaughter and could not help but wonder what future lies ahead for her. In that moment, I made a promise to do all I could to ensure that her life is as wonderful as possible.

I suspect you’ve made that very same commitment to your loved ones and your community. Many of you have also made a commitment to a younger generation whose lives will be improved by their experiences at the University of Kansas.

This job has taught me that everyone has their own vision for KU and unique hopes for the difference they can make. Individually those dreams may seem small, but when the dreams of many combine, we can build a university so much greater than the state alone can build.

Just a year ago we launched our ambitious Ever Onward campaign, and we have already seen so many impactful moments:

• Donors who have stretched to make legacy commitments in the tens of millions.
• Brand new donors giving their first $25.
• Gifts for band uniforms, medical research and contests for aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Investments in new buildings to inspire new generations.

Together, our visions have created incredible momentum. You, our donors, set a record for gifts given to KU in a single year — more than $500 million to benefit the causes you love.

Jayhawk Nation has contributed a remarkable $1.9 billion so far in this campaign, fueling the wonderful tomorrow I’ve promised my granddaughter and you’ve promised your loved ones. The progress we’ve made is inspiring, but we know there is more work to be done.

I am grateful for you and your work to ensure more generations experience all that KU can provide. Thank you for sharing our message and for bringing your friends. Thank you for investing your time. Thank you for giving.

With gratitude, we continue to proudly march Ever Onward!

Connect with us and learn more about the Ever Onward campaign at kueveronward.org.