Dear 1974 Classmates, I have been your Annual Giving Representative since our 30th Reunion. This task has provided a wonderful opportunity to learn about the most important way to support the College and to become more acquainted with our class as we share our joys and concerns of midlife around this conversation. We have a very capable and dedicated team of ’74s; annual giving is truly a collaborative effort. In October, I shared the pleasure of Alumnae Leadership Council with our fellow Officers. The campus was spectacular in its full fall glory and the changes brought by the Campaign are stunning. The first years -2011!-were engaged with their courses, fascinated by the Alums, vibrant and focused. Blink, 2015 and there she’ll be out in the ‘wide, wide world’. What will be her touchstone from Wellesley that will encourage and inspire her as she sets forth on that June? How well at our own thirty plus years hence we know the struggles that will require brave and difficult decisions. Will she feel equipped intellectually to speak up for her beliefs and will her thought process be guided by good will and an open mind? How will she bring excellence and purpose to her work, service and personal life? I would imagine these questions are familiar and on occasion you have shared them with a ’74, a favorite Wellesley professor or an Alumna both in times of challenge and of celebration. For whatever private, personal reason you value your time spent at Wellesley or in the world since, I am writing to ask that you give careful thought to our common goal. Help to ensure that a Wellesley education is an option for a young woman today who chooses to prepare for the world at Wellesley. Give her the hope and confidence to do something she has never done before; help her to break barriers of her own expectations or those of others. All gifts of any amount count and help us to reach the mark. Participation is powerful when shared among many. From our thirty years plus vantage point, we know well that excellence is a creative endeavor that assumes many forms. Equip a young woman who deserves the chance to know which form will be hers. She will be well served by your generosity and belief in her. I hope that our letters find you and your family and friends well and content. Thank you. Warmest regards, Jane DesForges Annual Giving Representative, Class of 1974