LETTER FROM PRESIDENT HARKER

Fall, 2009

Dear University of Delaware Athletics Fan:

As a fan of the Fightin’ Blue Hens, you are aware of the proud traditions and accomplishments that make up UD Athletics. Our legacy of success is built on the accomplishments of our former Athletic Director, Edgar Johnson, who retired this year after a respected and significant lifelong career at UD.

Taking the torch from him is Bernard Muir. Bernard joins us at an exciting time, when UD athletics is about to undergo a transformation. Using the foundation of success that we have established, it is now time to look forward to a new era of growth and change.

The impact of our athletic programming extends beyond titles and championships. Athletics is the one of the most visible components of a University and it provides a wonderful opportunity for positive exposure to a broader constituency. The University’s commitment to excellence is ever so present in the performance of a talented group of young people who don the blue and gold. Through their hard work, sweat and determi- nation, these young women and men wear “Delaware” proudly and represent the best of UD. It is essential we support their endeavors and pro- vide resources to encourage their successes.

The future of UD Athletics rests within a number of key areas: new and renovated athletic facilities, support for student-athletes through scholar- ships, endowing coaching positions, and increasing operational budgets. We rely on your generosity to accomplish those goals.

I hope that you will embrace transformation, and encourage change….. by supporting the University of Delaware Athletic Fund! Go Blue Hens!

Sincerely,

Patrick T. Harker