Forever Valpo. Two little words, one simple phrase, but laden with significance for all those who hold Valparaiso University dear to their hearts — students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.
What does Forever Valpo mean to you?
For me, I think of our University’s nearly 160-year history of preparing women and men to lead and serve throughout the world; the inspirational students of today discovering their passions and purpose; and a promising future of developing women and men to be the change the world needs. I am mindful of the message contained in Pastor Wetzstein’s superb Homecoming Sunday sermon, when he reminded us that “Jesus has a purpose for each of our lives and that purpose is Forever, Valpo.” I am humbled by these words as they remind me of the great honor I have to serve as president of this exceptional University. Each day, I pray for the guidance and strength of those 18 presidents who came before me. These men were responsible for building Valpo into an institution that embodies our Lutheran character and prepares students of knowledge, character, integrity, and wisdom to do great things for the sake of the world. That has been our legacy, and with your support and God’s blessings it will be our future — we will be Forever Valpo.
Those two words also define the core objective of Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future.
Forever Valpo is about securing Valpo’s future by growing our endowment. This permanent, self-sustaining source of funding ensures greater financial sustainability in the long-term.
That’s why we have launched our first endowment campaign and the most ambitious fundraising initiative in University history. Forever Valpo is a $250 million endowment campaign that will raise permanent resources for student scholarships, faculty development, and programs that prepare all students for lives of leadership and service.
In this issue of VALPO Magazine you will explore what Forever Valpo will mean to the future of our University. Read about how endowed funds are impacting the teaching and research of our faculty and how scholarship support is providing a Valpo education to students. Enjoy photos from the campus kickoff celebration as well as photos that capture highlights from the regional events.
When a concept as powerful as forever becomes our charge, our challenge, our call — we must unite and commit to doing everything in our power to secure the future of this special place.
We have been entrusted to steward this extraordinary institution, and we must continue to do so with innovative solutions, with the most talented students and dedicated faculty, with premier programs, with prayerful discernment, with great care and love, so that this University under the cross, a place where faith and learning thrive, will remain a gift to future generations and to the world.
I am confident that the people for whom this University matters will rise up to ensure God’s light continues to guide this University and transform our students of promise.
Enjoy this issue of VALPO Magazine. And may God bless Valparaiso University, now and forever. Forever Valpo.
Blessings,
Mark A. Heckler, Ph.D.
President
Valparaiso University