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College of Engineering

Campaign Wrap Up

I have built a reputation as an engineer who can identify and fix problems with nuclear power generating plants. Goals must be set, protocols revisited, systems reconfigured and vision implemented. The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering - while not in need of a "turnaround" - has also found value in setting goals and establishing a vision. At the conclusion of the "It Begins at Auburn" campaign, we have found ourselves quite successful in achieving milestones and moving ambitiously toward our vision.

When I became the chair of the Engineering Campaign Leadership Team in February of 2005, the university had embarked on a $500 million comprehensive campaign to increase funding for students, faculty, research, programs and facilities. Auburn Engineering faced a $105 million goal - the largest of any academic unit. I am pleased to note that we completed our campaign having raised in excess of $116 million - an achievement that was the result of the efforts of many. I recognize the leadership of Dean Benefield, the work of my fellow members of the leadership team, the diligent service of our Office of Engineering Development, and most importantly, our alumni, friends and corporate partners. This Auburn Engineering family has proven its dedication to the college and a belief in our future.

You will see from the charts on the following pages that we made great strides in some areas and will continue to have opportunities to increase funding for other areas. We surpassed our goal for student support by nearly $1.9 million which will provide critical resources to ensure we can compete for the best students. We nearly tripled our goal for programmatic support which enables the college to pursue hands-on experiences and provide the latest in learning opportunities. We exceeded our goal for facilities and equipment which has resulted in the renovation and construction of facilities that are second to none. Taken together, these areas lay the groundwork for Auburn Engineering to continue its pursuit of a top national ranking. The area in which we need continued work is that of faculty support. To become a leading engineering institution, we must bring more nationally recognized faculty to Auburn and keep the top scholars and researchers that we currently have on board. Maintaining an exceptional faculty requires the ability to offer competitive salary packages and support leading-edge faculty.  Endowed professorships provide that means.

While the campaign is now behind us, our work is not. We will continue to raise the resources necessary to establish Auburn Engineering as one of the nation's leading engineering institutions. The success of the "It Begins at Auburn" campaign, particularly for the College of Engineering, demonstrates what we can accomplish together. I remain thankful for your willingness to demonstrate your belief in the potential of Auburn Engineering as we continue to enhance our competitive edge. Please join me as we move ahead in securing a greater future for Auburn Engineering.

Oliver Kingsley
Engineering Campaign Chair

War Eagle!