I’ve been to several conference workshops over the years where the presenter at the head of the room uses the adage, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Usually, it’s used to describe the power of teamwork or group accomplishments. When we work together, we will all benefit from the elevation.
Well, I put my own twist on the saying … “Rising rankings lift all Panthers.”
Why do I say that, you ask? Once again, FIU has risen among U.S. News & World Report rankings at an unprecedented rate. Our Panther Nation rose 17 spots – yes, 17 in a single year! – to an overall ranking of 78 among U.S. among public universities. That’s one heck of a rising tide.
So, what exactly does that mean for us, as alumni? Rising rankings matter to us in many ways. The scores enable us to attract the best and brightest – both students and faculty. The standing enhances our reputation as a global leader throughout the world. New doors are opened; new opportunities are presented. New funding for research and discovery are unveiled. Firms relocate to South Florida to take advantage of FIU talent and public/private partnerships. Pride spreads. And thus, the diplomas on your walls increase in prestige and value. Talk about a win-win.
And it truly did take teamwork to make this rise possible: You yourself even played a part the day you graduated from this institution and became a proud Panther alum. Additionally, alumni who donate annually to causes at FIU that inspire them (think: scholarships, extracurricular programs, research endeavors, and so much more) make a direct impact on our ranking, because alumni donations are counted in the U.S. News & World Report formula.
So, go out and boast to your neighbors, families, friends and prospective Panthers. Hang an FIU flag on or in your home. Attend an upcoming alumni program to demonstrate your pride. Volunteer to mentor a current FIU student. Make a gift to a cause meaningful to you through FIU.
FIU is now 78 in the nation and will soon be among the Top 50. For such a young institution, these results are remarkable. As President Mark B. Rosenberg often says, “At FIU we turn the impossible into the inevitable.”
Go Panthers!
On another note, I want to personally extend to you an invitation to attend Homecoming festivities during the week of October 16-23, especially on Saturday, October 23. That day is filled with exciting activities designed to reconnect you to FIU. Come solo, with the family (there’s something for everyone) or gather up a bunch of former classmates to create your own reunion at the ever-popular ROAR Lounge. Whichever way you choose to participate, what’s most important is that you engage and celebrate. Visit the Homecoming page to find out more about the activities scheduled and to obtain tickets, when required.
There’s never been a better time to be a Panther.