The Vandal Story is getting out across the Inland Northwest. I’ve witnessed it touring University of Idaho facilities north and south, east and west. I hear it from our alumni as they share their memories and spread the word across Vandal Country. Now, we’re taking it into communities across the state. You’ve likely seen one of our 31 billboards across Idaho and eastern Washington touting some of what makes U of I so special. Whether it’s our status as one of America’s best value colleges or our impact around the globe, these messages proudly display our impact as Idaho’s land-grant institution. If you live in the Treasure Valley, keep an eye out for our “Breakthrough” buses or the updated window graphics at our Boise locations. Vandals will not be denied. We’re not content to simply study history, we’re making it. And this is just the beginning. I’m excited to share our new U of I television commercial – which begins airing in select markets and online this weekend. For a sneak peek, click the image below. ![](https://www.lib.uidaho.edu/digital/objects/fridayletter/images/0e2081d8-e0d6-4a95-b750-772e82b9e534.gif) We are grateful to the generous donors who helped bring this campaign to life: Lou and Susan Aldecoa, Brad and Annette Elg, Frances and Roy Ellsworth, Mike and Patty Fery, Jack and Julie Hawkins, Jack and Lisa Heath, Bill and Ali Kearns, Clint and Kim Marshall, Gary Michael, Claude Sappington, Intermountain Gas Company and Washington Trust Bank. Thanks for being first in line to help with this effort. Your gift will help us inspire others to reach their potential. We tell our Vandal stories bravely and boldly to anyone who will listen. We reach thousands of high school and prospective students each year through our marketing and recruitment efforts. As a result, our on-campus events for prospective students are growing. I had the privilege of welcoming more than 190 high school students to our Moscow campus last week for the first Envision event of the season. Envision is a daylong program specifically designed for high school seniors considering their college options. Attendance at this fun event was up by 117 students and 153% over last year. Early registration for our November Envision event also looks to be above last year. We are thrilled with this momentum and will continue to enthusiastically connect with the next generation of Vandals. Join me in spreading Vandal Pride as far as it can go. Share our videos with family and friends. Talk about your Vandal experience with potential college students or your local community organization. Snap a picture of your favorite message and share it on your social media. It’s never been a more exciting time to be a Vandal. We are grateful for your ongoing support. |