Moving Forward, the Journey Continues
By the Rev. John P. Schlegel, S.J., Creighton University President
“Scholarship and philanthropy are each, separately, among the most powerful forces at work shaping the future of our society. In combination, they are unsurpassed in their capacity to improve the human condition,” stated former University of Oregon President William B. Boyd.
When I announced the Willing to Lead campaign in 2005, no one could have foreseen the depth of your commitment and support for this wonderful University. Your enthusiasm has allowed us to dream big dreams and reach unprecedented heights. You have made it possible for Creighton to embrace its potential and expand its boundaries — academically, physically and spiritually.
Together, through your generosity, we have secured Creighton’s place on the national stage as a University recognized for quality education, groundbreaking faculty research, remarkable student accomplishment and consistent athletic success. Thank you for bringing Creighton to this defining moment.
However, this task is not yet complete; let me say in no uncertain terms — we are not done. The Willing to Lead campaign will continue. Creighton must never settle for what is, but always aspire for the more, the magis, as St. Ignatius of Loyola called it. We have known from the outset that this campaign would not be a concluding event but the beginning of a new era for this great University.
We are harnessing your energy and good will. We will remain vigilant and continue to secure the philanthropic support needed to address new strategic initiatives. We will do so mindful of the economy’s impact across higher education and sensitive to what it means for our donors, as well as for our students and their families. It is encouraging to note that you, our donors, continue to give generously.
Our Board and the Creighton community, at all levels, are pushing us to build on our momentum. With the complexity of the issues we face today as a nation and world, we are being challenged to look beyond what we have achieved and pursue several transformative opportunities that lie ahead. Our Catholic, Jesuit mission calls us to redouble our efforts to provide the fertile ground from which our students, graduates, scholars and scientists can address major issues facing our economy and humanity.
Indeed, institutions today face extraordinary challenges. Universities confront cuts in public funding, decimated endowments, new pressures on student financial aid and rising capital costs. Hospitals and academic medical centers have the added burden of rapidly shifting health care economics. But these are also times of tremendous opportunity. Our Board and the Creighton community have clearly stated that the University’s mission is more vital than ever.
Over its 131-year history, Creighton has provided an educational and research climate that supports and encourages the critical thinking, ethical decision-making, new discovery and entrepreneurial spirit necessary to move our world forward. I have faith and confidence in the power of a Catholic, Jesuit education. We develop, empower and embolden students and graduates to become leaders who face and solve the challenges of today and tomorrow and create a more just world.
In the short-term, by increasing general contributions for current use, and in the long-term, by growing a robust endowment, philanthropy will allow us to continue to retain and attract the best and brightest teachers, scholars and students. We must continue to assist students and their families who seek the quality education Creighton provides during these challenging economic times.
These and other emerging priorities are among the academic imperatives Creighton is pursuing, as part of a focused and strategic process. We will continue our dialogue with you, our Creighton community, listening to your interests, recommendations and concerns and capitalizing on the momentum created by the Willing to Lead campaign to boldly address the challenges facing our nation and world.
For my part, I believe in our future and know the human genius can grasp and solve problems. I believe each member of the Creighton community — including our benefactors — has a role to play and a responsibility in moving Creighton’s mission forward.
I invite you on this journey. Our bold tomorrow is here, and an even bolder tomorrow awaits us! Together, let us write the next chapter in the unfolding history of Creighton University.