Inaugural Ceremony Archive
Robert R. Dyson
President, Dyson Foundation
Chairman Plapinger and trustees, faculty, students, alumni, distinguished guests, and of course, President Hill, I am honored to be here to bring a welcome from the community.
The Hudson Valley is one of only 27 congressionally designated national heritage areas. With a population of almost 2.5 million people, the Hudson Valley is one of this nation's treasures. From America's "first river" to its farmlands and striking mountains, the Hudson Valley is a changing, energetic region with strong economic growth, a smart workforce, unparalleled tourism, rich cultural opportunities, and with the best quality of life that can be found anywhere.
Without any question, Vassar College is one of the jewels in the crown of this region.
When Poughkeepsie businessman Matthew Vassar first purchased this land, a former fairgrounds, in 1860, it was described as a "treeless plain." But it was considered far enough away from town to provide sheltered surroundings to the young women, while still being close enough for convenient access to the City of Poughkeepsie and Hudson River.
Vassar historians know that the college almost never happened. Although Matthew Vassar was taken with the idea of educating women, he had many differences of opinion with Milo Jewett, who he had appointed to be Vassar's first President. Jewett was also at odds with Matthew's two nephews. The nephews opposed their uncle's desire to build the college, and instead wanted to construct a hospital in the city of Poughkeepsie. Jewett, learning of their opposition, wrote to Matthew Vassar that a hospital would be, and I quote, "a very unwise use of money," and that Vassar "might as well throw [his money] into the Hudson River." Well, that hospital was eventually built with a bequest from one of the nephews, and became Vassar Brothers Hospital. As a trustee today of that hospital, and its parent organization, and as the parent of two children born at that hospital, I'm here to tell you that I'm glad that both Vassars got what they wanted!
Fortunately, that early difference of opinion did not characterize the future relationship of Vassar College with its chosen home. Vassar College has been a very significant part of this community from its beginnings.
Vassar College contributes immeasurably to this region with all of its resources, with its intellectual capital, with its people, and with its dollars.
Vassar students and faculty have never been more engaged in the community around them. Vassar has always had a strong spirit of volunteerism•many hundreds of students volunteer in the community. For example, Vassar has been a leader in supporting the Poughkeepsie Institute, a cooperative effort of six area colleges which examines issues of local concern. This innovative national program bridges town-gown divides, and is a model for future projects.
Vassar College is the fifth largest employer in Dutchess County, and with an annual payroll of $64 million and more than 1100 employees, it is an important source of good quality jobs. Its annual spending is largely focused here in the Valley, as is that of its faculty, staff and students. Vassar attracts more than 22,500 visitors a year, who also bring their pocketbooks not only to the campus but to area restaurants, hotels and local cultural and historic attractions.
Vassar's campus itself is a gem, from its historic buildings and great architecture to its 230 species of specimen trees. Vassar has opened its doors and gates to its neighbors, from community events to arts and cultural performances at the Powerhouse and Stein Shiva Theatres and the new Vogelstein Center, to arts exhibits at the Loeb Art Center. I know that the community has never felt as welcome at Vassar as they have in recent years.
President Hill, you have said that community involvement will be one of the hallmarks of your tenure, and the community stands to benefit from all that Vassar College has to offer.
President Hill, your arrival could not have better timing. Vassar is pre-eminent among its peers, and is at a pinnacle of accomplishment. I know you will guide it even higher. We greet you with open arms and open hearts.
President Hill, I congratulate you, I salute your leadership, and I welcome you into the community.