As we welcome a new year, it is useful to reflect upon our recent accomplishments and set a course for the future.

In 1997 Drexel attained its highest enrollment level in nearly a decade. We received almost 8,000 applications and met our goal of

enrolling about 2,200 new undergraduates, who are among the best and brightest in the country. This trend toward greater selectivity will be further enhanced as our reputation for academic excellence spreads. Our enrollment goal in 1998 will focus on growth of our part-time and graduate student population.

Beginning in this new year and continuing throughout the next several years, we will concentrate on the University's infrastructure, addressing new efficiencies in our processes, practices and procedures, as well as enhancement of the physical infrastructure. This has already begun with the functional and structural upgrade of the University's computer network. Improved intranet access and speed will increase both our productivity and our capacity for innovative teaching and research.

With the leadership of Dr. Harvill Eaton, vice president for research, and the collaboration of our faculty, we will strengthen our research and grant activity. Our goal is to upgrade our classification in the the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching from a Doctoral I university to a Research university within the next five years.

This advancement will yield many benefits, including greater opportunities for attracting students of the highest caliber. It also will give Drexel peer status with other outstanding universities including Carnegie Mellon, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Georgia Tech, Lehigh, and Case Western Reserve.

Thank you for your continued support and participation as Drexel enters the next phase of its development. My very best wishes for a healthy, happy new year.

C.R. "Chuck" Pennoni Interim President