“Partnerships and outreach have been part of Drexel’s legacy – and they remain a vital part of our University’s future. Three quick examples:

“At the beginning of this year, Bucks County Community College became the largest of six partner schools using Drexel’s learning management system. The addition of their 10,000 plus student enrollment challenged us to work together - to make the transition of courses as seamless as possible.

"The Middle States Association has an international network of 3500 professionals. They have frequent meetings and offer trainings where travel and expense and inconvenience normally prevail. They spoke with us in IRT about finding a better way – leveraging existing and emerging technologies. Middle States can now conduct their trainings virtually - record, archive, and stream them- and conduct meetings in real time – all using facilities and technology we have in place in the Korman Computing Center.

"Most recently, Haddonfield Memorial High School, in New Jersey, began augmenting their senior AP classes using Drexel-based technologies. IRT trained the high school instructors - and helped them incorporate technology - to enhance their face-to-face classes. We also collaborated on offering Drexel classes to their seniors, even as they complete their high school education. The high school has 775 students. That district has 2400 students. Joan McDonald and her Enrollment Management team are highlighting other unique opportunities to rising juniors and seniors at Haddonfield.

“Many of my IRT colleagues worked hard to make these successful initiatives.

And - it is wonderful that Donna and Daniel, my family, are here tonight to share this moment with me; they are the light of my life. Thank you all --- very much."