President's Message

It is essential for the University to join forces with the National Alumni Association (NAA) to ensure that we reach our $30 million goal. With only $8 million to complete this goal, we are confident that our alumni will contribute the necessary funds to meet or exceed the goal by the beginning of 2008. To this end, we are requesting that alumni make a thoughtful and proportionate gift to support the campaign. If 8,000 alumni contribute $200 annually for five years, we would realize our $8 million goal.

The decision to seek private funding sources from individuals and corporations comes as the competition for limited educational dollars intensifies, especially when local and state governments are facing shrinking revenues and growing public needs. Consequently, our need for alumni support is at an all-time high. Without external funding, Prairie View A&M University will be a good institution, but it will not have the quality that is essential for our students to compete successfully in the global new world that is taking shape. Lack of essential funds in the future will also place limitations on deserving high school graduates. It would be a tragedy for a young man or woman to work hard for college admission and then not be able to attend because they cannot afford it. The future of this university and the leaders of tomorrow will be determined to a large degree by the success of this campaign.

Nearly half of the contributions raised will provide financial assistance for students and attract and train top quality faculty. Endowed scholarships and professorships are vital to our effort. Funds raised for academic endowments are matched dollar-for-dollar, with additional funds provided by the State of Texas (through August 31, 2007) and other matching resources. Your contribution doubles the impact.

When thinking about the future of Prairie View A&M University, we must first think about our students. It is important for us to consider the students here today and those who will attend this University in the years to come. Above all, we must also think of the individuals who came before us, shaping our history and developing our lasting traditions. Thinking of the students and alumni brings to mind the contributions of faculty and others. It is the dedicated professors, researchers and staff members who motivate our students and enrich their lives. They have all helped make Prairie View A&M University a productive institution for more than 130 years.

We have a proud history. We are a vital component in the Texas A&M University System known worldwide for educational excellence. We invite you to please join us in our efforts to continue PVAMUs caring for students of tomorrow by helping to EXTEND  THE  VIEW: and Shape tomorrow today.