<p>Well, no one else posted a campaign here. However, I am pleased to learn that the Blair campaign was successful and finished above the goal even in these troubled economic times. I doubt that the endowment will surpass $80mil given the financial market meltdown. At least, it should keep it close to flat, but I don’t know that yet. </p>
<p>The new athletic and activities center is wonderful, as are the new tennis courts, football field, etc. </p>
<p>Dear Alumni, Parents and Friends, </p>
<p>On behalf of the entire Blair community, THANK YOU!</p>
<p>Your collective support during Ever, Always: The Campaign for Blair has literally changed the landscape at Blair and transformed the lives of young people by the educational opportunity you have provided. I am pleased to announce that during this historic campaign, 5,400 members of the Blair family—including over 55% of the alumni body—contributed $52.1 million, exceeding our goal and expectations, especially given the economic instability of this past year. </p>
<p>Your gifts—of every size and from every quarter of the world—made this success possible. We finished the Campaign with the strongest Blair Fund ever, raising over $2.16 million, an historic record and 8% above last year. Your decision to give means that more young people will be able to afford a Blair education; outstanding teachers will have the tools and training they need; and the Blair experience will continue to inspire character and values in the next generation. </p>
<p>We thank you for your belief in Blair and its important mission. While this will be my final Ever Always email to you, know that the impact of your support will be felt on this campus for many years to come. And should your travels bring you this way, Chan and I sincerely hope you will come visit and see, first-hand, the students and teachers whose lives your giving has touched. </p>
<p>Below is a summary of the achievements of the Ever Always Campaign:</p>
<p>Construction of Hardwick Hall, the new activity and athletic center. With ample room for sports, recreation and activities, the state-of-the-art facility has already become the center of community life on campus.
Addition of $12.5 million to Blair’s endowment, including $8 million for scholarship aid and over $1 million for faculty salary and enrichment funds.
Growth of the Blair Fund from a $1 million to a $2 million annual initiative, providing educational excellence in the form of programs, courses, scholarships and faculty enrichment.
Addition of 125 acres of land to the core of campus through the purchase of the Siegel property.
Construction or acquisition of five new faculty homes.
Expansion and enhancement of outdoor athletic facilities, including new playing fields and track, synthetic turf field, and tennis center with 10 new courts.</p>