But many faculty colleagues coming back from sabbatical leave often spontaneously comment with a tinge of surprise that in many aspects Memorial compares very favorably to whatever un iversity they were visiting. That is not a surprise to me - I have found this to be true from the very first week I started to work here. Throughout the university there are pockets of real excellence among students, staff and faculty alike. And across t he board, I happily compare Memorial's teaching and research programs with universities far better known to my travel companions over the years. We need to get that message out-and fast.
Universities everywhere are under great pressure.
Governments have cut back funding. Monopolies are crumbling. For the first time in its history perhaps, Memorial's survival will depend on its ability to win the hearts and mi nds of the general public, of government and, above all, of the dwindling number of students graduating from high school each year. Very much so. I hope so - but the health of our university is only assured when every single person working at Memorial understands and accepts that the game has changed.