I am constantly reminded that what makes the College of Forestry such an outstanding place to work and study is the people who make up our Forestry family. People who devote their lives to students. People who devote their lives to finding new knowledge about our forests. People whose careers contribute to the forestry professions and thereby to society. People whose gifts make it possible for young people to get an education and enrich their lives with learning. This issue of Focus on Forestry is filled with such stories. Sadly, several of the stories are of alumni who are now deceased, but their legacy lives on through the changes they have made in other people, our forests, our industries, and our communities.
For many, their legacy will continue in perpetuity through
endowments that provide scholarships and other learning opportunities that
expand the life experiences of our students. All the stories in this issue
are about people who have a special connection to the College of Forestry,
and who, through that connection, have made a difference. To each of them
we extend our thanks and grateful appreciation. For those who have died,
we extend to their families our heartfelt pledge that their lives and their
good works will not be forgotten, but will become a part of the living
history of our College. We are very proud of all those we recognize with
articles in this issue of Focus and the roles they have played and continue
to play in our College. We hope you will be equally proud.