An Important Call to All Alumni

Dear Hawks Fans,

With our renewed emphasis on fundraising for the Home Field Advantage project, I have had the great opportunity to talk with and visit a multitude of alumni across the country. I can tell you that it has been a privilege, and it has been a most impressionable experience. I have had a chance to hear many stories from people who have shared their Hillyer College and University of Hartford experiences. From the Hillyer alumni who speak so fondly of his teammates and their days on Hudson Street, to the young Hartford alumnus whose aspires to teach in large part to her teaching influences while a Hawk, the stories are precious. All the stories have one thing in common - people have made the biggest difference in their lives. Wins and losses aside, it's the human element that survives and the thing they remember most.

It is this spirit of people making a difference in each other's lives that makes me believe, now more than ever, our alumni will "carry the day" in making the Home Field Advantage Project a reality. I am confident that the student-athletes of the past want their legacy to continue by providing today's student-athletes with the best experiences possible. The reality in this day and age is that the "best experiences possible" translates into financial resources. The need to raise money for the Home Field Advantage Project - providing quality venues for competition, practice and general student recreation - is an example.

It is true that we need to do a better job of connecting our past with our present. In the conversations I have had over the last 12 months, I believe it is a bridge waiting to be built. Guided by the leadership of President Walter Harrison, a commitment is being made across campus to build those bridges - literally and figuratively. I believe our alumni will respond and make a difference for those Hawks currently in and out of uniform. I've enjoyed spending time with the alumni I've met and can't wait for the journey through our past to continue.

Thank you ahead of time for your support. Go Hawks!

Pat