NMH Magazine : Fall 2004

From the President

by Richard W. Mueller ’62 

I write shortly after our alumni and parent leaders weekend in August. Key volunteers learned about our plans for the future and asked some hard questions. Some shared their feelings of loss even as they looked to the future. We appreciate their dedication to supporting our school in the critical months ahead.

Volunteers heard the positive news with which we begin the new academic year: exceeding our Annual Fund goal, full enrollment by June, significantly reduced attrition, the first-year success of our ninth-grade program, beginning construction on our two student cottages, and the on-track performance of our financial plans.

Volunteers saw the vision of a strong NMH that retains its best and unique characteristics, including our commitment to significant financial aid for deserving students.

We also discussed plans for alternative uses for the Northfield campus. Phase one is underway to compile information about the campus and to learn from specialists in fields such as education and retirement housing. The firms of Bidwell Associates and LandVest are working with us, and we are in regular touch with the town of Northfield. In November our board of trustees will consider the information developed and decide on phase two next steps. Our financial plan includes maintenance funds for the next five years, so while we want to find alternative uses expeditiously, we do not feel pressure to make premature decisions.

We had lively discussions about the importance of engaging and re-engaging our alumni and friends in the challenging work of the future. As a school we must reach out effectively to build bridges and encourage you to engage with us. We must share wonderful news of our students and find ways for you to understand how your financial and moral support truly are critical to their education.

For example, do you know that each student effectively receives a scholarship because tuition covers only about 69 percent of the full cost? The difference is made up only when your generosity supports our annual fund and endowment.

Do you know how much we appreciate even the smallest contributions every year to the Annual Fund? Please don’t think that only big gifts make a difference. All of us acting collectively, every year, truly do make a difference.

As an alumnus, class of 1962, I understand better than ever how giving back provides current and future students true opportunities. I invite you to consider how your philanthropy—at whatever level—on a sustained basis will be put to the best use in the coming years.

Having now assumed the role of president, I look forward to my travels and speaking with alumni, parents, and friends about our directions for the future and how your support at this historic juncture is a wonderful investment in the next generation. There is no one else to provide that support.

And the world needs the type of thoughtful, intelligent, and compassionate person that is an NMH graduate.