Thank you.

Are there two more well worn words in the English language? Two words that have been used more frequently, more enthusiastically, more humbly or hopefully? I use them now because they are an appropriate response to your generosity. "Thank you" is an everyday phrase, but I hope you will feel it here in the deepest sense of gratitude from one person to another. Allow these words to sink in, to affect you in a profound and personal way. That is the kind of impact you have on students at Ithaca College.

Your generosity, your thoughtfulness, and your compassion touch our students' lives. Gifts to Ithaca College enable young, ambitious, curious, and unique individuals to achieve things never imagined. You do this, and I am deeply grateful.

Please take a moment to explore this site; it was created specifically for you. Within it, you will find illustrations of the authentic, singular experiences found on South Hill. You will find the stories of people who believe, as you do, in the importance of making our institution a vibrant and robust place of learning that transforms lives.

And, most of all, you will find yourself. Not just in the literal sense as you find your name listed among those of your peers, but also in the sense of recognizing how your good intentions, your best wishes, your hopes and aspirations have been made real by the opportunities your gifts create.

So I offer, once again, these two humble words: Thank you.

Sincerely,

Thomas R. Rochon
President, Ithaca College