I came to the Warnell School of Forest Resources in January 2004 as dean with both humility and excitement—humility because of the School's excellent reputation and my personal experience watching its graduates assume leadership roles in the profession—excitement because the faculty, staff and students are willing and able to take an already quality program to new levels.

The challenge before us now is setting priorities to further increase our capabilities and achievements in order to lead the forestry and natural resources profession. The School is certainly blessed with loyal and extremely supportive alumni, and for that we are fortunate and truly grateful. Yet much remains to be done.

Becoming the eminent institution in forestry and natural resource education, research and service means producing ever-improving graduates. In addition to advancing their academic knowledge, our graduates must also possess superior verbal and written communication abilities and be comfortable with the latest technical skills and methods. And they must leave here with a real passion for the profession and a desire for working in interdisciplinary teams.

Advancing our program requires that our faculty constantly improve both the quality and relevance of their research. And it means expanding our level of service to constituents on campus, in the community, across the state, the nation, and around the world. This will require expertise, energy, and enthusiasm but also teamwork.

Finally, leadership often involves taking risks others are unwilling to accept. Significant and continuing declines in state funding mean that we must work harder than ever to provide alternative funding for our programs.

With your ideas, support and willingness to be involved, the Warnell School of Forest Resources will take its place as the leader in forestry and natural resource education, research and service.