Simon Fraser University opened its doors in 1965 to embark on a bold academic journey that challenged convention and embraced change. Thirty-seven years later, SFU has emerged as a formidable academic presence: one of the country's leading comprehensive universities, with an international reputation for innovative teaching, research, and community outreach.

As I reflect on my second year at SFU, I continue to be impressed by the collective commitment and talent of this institution's faculty, staff and students. Examples of their remarkable accomplishments are highlighted throughout this report--powerful evidence that SFU is breaking new ground in academic leadership and quality.

There are seven particularly noteworthy initiatives that illustrate SFU's forward-looking agenda. First, four projects involve physical changes; they are groundbreakers in the most literal sense. On this site, you will find more information about UniverCity, the new community on Burnaby Mountain; SFU Surrey, the university's second satellite campus; the Segal Graduate School of Business, in downtown Vancouver; and the Technology and Science Complex, to be built on the main campus.

There are also three new program initiatives that will decidedly strengthen the future reputation of SFU. First, SFU has launched a major curriculum overhaul to increase the emphasis on writing, quantitative skills and breadth of study for undergraduates. This new curriculum will deliver the foundation necessary to ensure success for all students, regardless of their academic specialty. Our ambition is to confirm SFU's national and international leadership in liberal arts and science education.

Next, SFU will expand its internationalization efforts to better prepare our students to live and work in the global arena. Universities are by nature universal in their pursuit and evaluation of knowledge, and international contact must be part of any program of higher learning that hopes to justify a claim to quality. Our innovative international field schools and co-op programs make SFU a preferred place to study for those who value international experience and cross cultural contact.

Finally, SFU is taking dramatic steps in the ongoing search for integrated healthcare solutions. Our new Institute for Health Research and Education (IHRE) is building an aggressive presence in the health field. The IHRE departs from conventional clinical models by developing health promotion and population health programs that draw on SFU's interdisciplinary strengths.

Please join with us in realizing our groundbreaking objectives as SFU champions new opportunities for academic discovery, diversity and dialogue.