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Our University at Risk

From the University Report (published by the GAA 1970-94). This column, from the October 1990 issue, was written by then-GAA President Wade Smith ’60.

Dear Carolina Alumni and Friends:
Most readers arc aware that Carolina is now into its third year of cutbacks in state funding. Regrettably, the quality of the University’s academic mission is now threatened. What has taken nearly 200 years to build — the most highly ranked University in the state and one of the top 20 in the nation — can be quickly lost.

Over the years, Carolina alumni and friends have always answered the call whenever our University needed our support. After reading Chancellor Hardin’s report to the Trustees (page 16), author David Perkins’ article (page 9), and the article by former Student Body President Bryan Hassel ’88 (page 13,) I know you will want to join me and your Alumni Association Board of Directors in helping.

Besides maintaining your membership in the General Alumni Association and continuing your financial support of Carolina, I urge you to do something more — vote and express to your legislative candidates how important their support for Carolina and quality public education are to you. Ask them whether they will vote for additional funding for the University if elected. If an incumbent is running for re-election, thank him or her for supporting the flexibility legislation passed by the General Assembly this summer.

Our University is North Carolina’s most valued human-made resource. We can, we must provide for its continuing excellence. Your active support is critical. Talk to, write, or call your legislative candidates now— before it is too late.

Wade M. Smith ’60 (AB, ’63 LLB/JD )
President,
UNC General Alumni Association

 

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