other. The information science of life edges ever closer to electronic information science. Advances in understanding life may lead to new modes of computing, notably biological computing. To strengthen the mathematical foundations of science and society, the National Science Foundation has proposed a new priority area. We seek to advance frontiers in three interlinked areas: fundamental mathematical and statistical sciences, interdisciplinary research involving the mathematical sciences, and mathematical sciences education. I show this final slide as a mathematical metaphor. Fractal sets like we see here can be used to build computer models of clouds, plants, the surface of the sea, even networks of blood vessels. Yet, mathematics also transports us beyond the practical, into the realm of the imagination and art. A coming together of brilliant imaginations for a higher purpose will be a hallmark of the Banff Center. We look forward to an inspiring and long-lasting engagement among our mathematical scientists, our Canadian colleagues, and others from around the world, in a superb environment for communication and collaboration.