When you think about the expectations we have of our research universities, educating our young people comes to mind first. And indeed that is their primary purpose—the transfer of knowledge to a new generation of leaders and doers. But given the increasingly complex roles that universities play today in shaping society, the expectations are actually much broader.
We expect new knowledge to be created through research.
We expect that knowledge to advance entire fields, from healthcare to transportation, from manufacturing to computer science, from architecture to public policy, and much more.
Perhaps even more importantly, we expect that knowledge to generate economic development and job creation, especially in the communities these institutions directly serve.
As you can imagine, Georgia Tech—its people, its research and knowledge, its outreach—continues to make a remarkable impact on Atlanta and the state of Georgia. A quick glance at the annual report of the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents reveals the true flagship university in the state.
This issue is dedicated to demonstrating Tech’s immense local impact. We’ll look at how Tech alumni, faculty, staff and students are helping to revitalize Atlanta through development projects such as the BeltLine. They’re also playing an instrumental role in governing and managing our communities and resources. This list goes on and on: engineering ways that doctors and hospitals can deliver better care, creating mission-driven businesses, leading civic treasures, sharing manufacturing expertise, and continuing to shape Atlanta’s skyline.
At the Alumni Association, we make an impact, too, as our 2015 fiscal year annual report demonstrates. This past year’s Chairman Bob Stargel, EE 83, shares just how remarkable a year we had—thanks to our alumni, staff and the Institute.
Speaking of which, let me take this opportunity to formally thank you for supporting Roll Call, hiring Tech alumni, mentoring students, advocating on the Institute’s behalf, helping us lead the university and—most of all—for showing your passion for the Georgia Tech of the future and the past.
Joseph P. Irwin, IM 80
President & CEO
Georgia Tech Alumni Association
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