Chair's Letter

Dear Ranger Family,

The volatility of the U.S. stock market in 2022 has been a consistent theme as investors have seen the S&P 500 surge 5.2 percent in the beginning of August to then drop with an end-of-the-month down of 5.2 percent. The rising costs of consumer goods has added concern, as has the conflict in Ukraine and what it may mean to our American security.

And yet, for Northwestern Oklahoma State University, a recurring theme emerges as it has in years’ past. You, as investors in our students and their education, as well as the future of all of us, have once again stepped forward, rolled up your sleeves, and placed a high mark on the value of education with your commitment of financial resources. Our endowment has steadily climbed.

On behalf of my colleagues on the board of the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association, we are eternally grateful. Without your investment, we could not support the next doctor who will save a life, the next educator who will inspire a dream, or the next entrepreneur who will bring new opportunities to mankind.

Thank you.

It is also fitting to mention another theme that has been critical to a successful year: teamwork. In the two years that I have chaired the board, I have been impressed with the teamwork that has supported the great work of the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association staff.

The Executive Committee, the Investment Committee, the Governance Committee and the Stewardship Committee – all comprised of volunteers who are passionate about the success of Northwestern – have faced the challenges and, on occasion, adapted alternative strategies to make the best decisions for the health and well-being of our organization. The Northwestern Alumni Board – again, passionate volunteers – has developed new programming that supports and represents the mission of the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association.

I am grateful for the commitment that all of these volunteers bring to the table. It is true; the accomplishments of a team always exceed the accomplishments of an individual. I know our finish line will always move to the next level and our work will never be done. But the journey, I believe, is worth it and I am grateful to be a part of it. Thank you for the honor of serving you.

Ride, Rangers, Ride.

L.D. Rapp

Chair, Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Class of 1979