Welcome to Beach Magazine! While only a few of our many faculty, staff and student accomplishments are presented in this issue, these stories represent a tapestry of excellence that is The Beach.

Recently, we announced Declare, a comprehensive philanthropic campaign for California State University, Long Beach. We set an audacious goal of raising $225 million to advance our mission of offering students a distinctive education that prepares them to excel—personally, professionally and as civic-minded citizens.

Why have we taken this unprecedented step? First, still reeling from the Great Recession, we have not and don’t anticipate recovering previous levels of state funding in the near future. As each of you well knows, a quality education is priceless…but, it still comes at a price. For us to continue to offer students an outstanding and affordable education, we must find savings and develop alternative sources of revenue. We’ve already initiated major energy-saving programs that have reduced our energy bills, and we save money through modern procurement strategies to get the best price on everything we buy.

Happily, we continue to receive funding for our vital educational, creative and research missions from federal, state and regional sources, including a $22.7 million grant to establish an innovative research training program that prepares underrepresented students for doctoral programs and biomedical research careers. And, we are deeply grateful for support from our current staff and faculty.

Partnerships with private and public employers—including student internships, shared facilities, industry mentors and direct financial support of students—are another promising revenue alternative.

Alumni involvement is fundamental to our success. How can we inspire you to invest in The Beach? Did you have an astonishing professor who set you on your path to a rewarding career? Perhaps you can make a financial contribution that will ensure current students have the same great experience you did. Have a local business? Offering jobs to Beach graduates is an invaluable way to give back. Promoting The Beach with everyone you meet, as well as advocating Beach priorities with your elected leaders, helps us spread the word about our importance to the community, the state and the nation.

As you read Beach Magazine, see where your passions lie and consider investing in your university. ▲

Go Beach!

Jane Close Conoley