Dear 77s,
 
Nothing is quite like Kenyon in October, right? The warmth of the afternoon sun and light chill of the evening air. Crispy leaves and brilliant colors. That gravel crunch accenting the flow of friendly faces along Middle Path. Whatever the season – except February! – it's a great time to see old friends on the Hill. 

I'm hoping we'll have the opportunity to do so again soon, especially since Kenyon is expecting a post-covid alumni cluster bash next Memorial Day weekend. Plans are taking shape for an unforgettable Reunion 2022 on the Hill. So mark your calendar for the weekend of May 27. 

As we approach number 45 there's a lot of reason to celebrate. The new Chalmers Library is an architectural highlight, with its colorful, naturally-lit "disco-ball" atrium – though I suspect the effect is more like a Fillmore light show. And all four classes are studying together in Gambier again – except of course the record-breaking, first-year cohort wrapping its first semester in Copenhagen! 

Plus the College just shared its new strategic plan that will guide its decisions and programs heading into and beyond Kenyon's milestone bicentennial in 2024. This includes key elements like expanded commitment to environmental responsibility, a new liberal-arts-informed computer science program, and enrolling, retaining and graduating a student body that's representative of our nation's talent and diversity.
 
Speaking of which, perhaps the most inspiring announcement is about the Kenyon Access Initiative. This will bring more high-achieving, under-served students to Kenyon thanks to a $25 million matching grant from the Schuler Education Foundation. Any amount we give through the Kenyon Access Initiative will be matched dollar for dollar. This will fuel an incredibly forward-looking new scholarship for students from families with limited means or ineligible for government aid — up to $25 million. It's a really big deal.
 
I could go on about these two pieces of news, but, fortunately, I can spare you. If you scroll down to the next section, you can learn more about Kenyon’s strategic plan, the Kenyon Access Initiative, and how they fit into Kenyon’s 2024 bicentennial celebration.
 
As you read about what’s in store for Kenyon, I hope you’ll consider supporting today’s students with a gift to the Kenyon Fund and, if you have the ability, making an additional gift to the Kenyon Access Initiative, with its potential to bring 50 additional talented students to Kenyon each year.

Kenyon couldn’t be Kenyon without involved and supportive alumni like us. Our ongoing commitment has been instrumental in the transformation of Kenyon from a sleepy campus on a remote hill into a dynamic institution designed to serve the 21st century. As the bicentennial draws closer, I challenge each of you to do a little more than you have in the past to help keep Kenyon the special place it is. So think about becoming an alumni volunteer, attending a College event, or even just submitting a class note. 
 
Whatever you decide, thank you! I look forward to seeing you in Gambier next Spring.
Jim Desrosier

P.S. Is Kenyon already in your will? Let the College know about your planned giving by emailing daleiden1@kenyon.edu.