At RIT, "technology" isn't a buzzword. It's our name. It's what we are.

And that means we're in a terrific position to be a leader in the technological revolution.

With the creation of RIT's eighth and largest college, a new era in computing and information sciences is underway at RIT.

The B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences owes its existence to the generosity of an extraordinary friend and member of our Board of Trustees. As the founder of the Rochester-based Paychex Inc., Tom Golisano demonstrated outstanding foresight and the kind of dedication we hope to instill in our graduates. We're honored and proud to have his name permanently connected to this university.

You'll read more about the new college and about Tom in this issue. We also feature the stories of some of our alumni who have taken on the challenge -as did Tom- of operating their own businesses.

This issue takes you along on our trek into the world of astronomy, and gives you a look at some new gathering places for students here on campus. And you'll meet some of our hard-working students who, of course, are at the core of everything we do.

Our annual convocation ceremony takes place Friday evening, May 25, with commencement ceremonies for each college on Friday and Saturday, May 26. This is always a festive, happy time on campus, the culmination of all that we do. Please consider joining us on this occasion.

And keep the weekend of Oct. 12 Í 14 in mind. Our first comprehensive alumni reunion will take place during Brick City Festival, our fall celebration. It's going to be a great event, but it will be better if you're there!

Cordially yours,