The University of Idaho is a university on the rise. This past year external forces tried to influence who we are and what we do. Like Vandals, we overcame. When a sweeping pandemic hit, threatening our ability to stay open, we planned, organized, united and persevered. We are finishing the year with a COVID-positive rate far below what anyone expected and below local, regional and state rates. After three years of a cumulative $45 million loss, we came out of FY20 with a small but meaningful surplus. Despite the monetary challenges of the pandemic, we again expect FY21 to end financially stronger than we started it. A difficult legislative session saw our alma mater come under attack from special interests, but we did not let these unsupported narratives go unchallenged. Our alumni, supporters in business and friends in the Legislature prevailed. We have delivered a high quality Vandal education for 132 years. Our graduates go on to make a difference in the world. This is not about to change. Our future is filled with research and innovation to help Idaho industries excel. We have courses and training to build the leaders of tomorrow. We have the connections to Idahoans who make a difference. I invite you to watch the State of the University address. It is available on Facebook or can be viewed directly from our website. This overview of the past year and glimpse into our future should leave you inspired. Share our story with everyone â from those in leadership to students embarking on life after high school. We are Idahoâs land-grant university, poised to make a difference in the lives of all its citizens. We are a university on the rise. |