Fisk University has a proud legacy and many strengths as a foundation for future prosperity. Fisk has a national reputation for academic excellence, motivated students with high school records indicating high aptitude for success in a rigorous academic environment, loyal and passionate alumni and friends with a deep sense of pride in Fisk, a small, close-knit university environment with a culture of personal attention and support, and a dedicated leadership team committed to Fisk's history, culture and vision.

However, the current climate presents Fisk with several critical challenges to address increasing compe-tition for the top 15% of African American students who attend HBCUs. The University’s financial situation is being strained by the worldwide economic crisis, pressuring both students and donors. Ninety-one per-cent of Fisk students receive financial assistance. As a result of the changing demands of a more global and technology-centric world, Fisk has implemented a metric-based strategic plan to ensure its long-term success strategy based on its vision for the future.

What is our role in the achievement of the University’s strategy?

Our alma mater had a goal this year to recruit 300 students nationwide but missed that goal by a large margin. This was attributed to economic conditions; therefore, we must be more productive and effective in our recruiting efforts this upcoming year. We must be committed in our recruiting efforts so that we can exceed our previous year’s achievement. We identify and compete for a share of the Chicago metro’s top 15% of students and mentor them to assure a greater chance that they will become a Fisk University student. We must give more of ourselves by becoming more involved in activities that emphasize the positive difference Fisk can have on the quality of their education and campus life. A second commitment should be to write a check for any affordable amount payable to: Fisk University. If you have not paid your annual CAFUAA dues, please approach me or an Club officer to accept your check and verify your current address and e-mail contact information.

Please join me and make a pledge to do more in 2010 to assure Fisk University’s survival and to work toward the goal of training leaders to guide the coming generations. We exist as alumni to provide professional, social and educational connections and to inspire and cultivate our young alumni. Our overarching goal is to increase alumni support and encourage charitable giving to the University. Your continued support and participation in our alumni association is important to Fisk University and our young.

Ollice C. (Train) Holden