2010 Annual Appeal

The USMMA Alumni Foundation would like to thank all of you who contributed to the Foundation in 2009. It is always appreciated and never taken for granted, even in better economic times. It is appreciated even more during this tough environment. All forecasts point to an equally challenging 2010. We do not take your support for granted but we cannot pat ourselves on the back and think we no longer have work to do. A new year means we must begin again to support the Academy and the Regiment of Midshipmen.

I am asking you to be as generous as possible for 2010. I am confident that we can match the previous year so it is our hope that we raise $2,000,000 in unrestricted gifts. This support is vital to insure “the margin of excellence” is provided to the Academy.

The government budget for FY 2011 contains a substantial increase for the Academy’s operating budget and for capital improvements. This is certainly a big step in the right direction and we are all grateful that it is becoming more and more evident to the government that this needs to be done year after year. It does not make up for lack of funds in the past. Please understand that this increase does not solve all the issues that are facing the Academy today. The Foundation’s support, unfortunately, is still needed and that is why I am asking for your support again this year.

The Foundation will continue to improve communication with all of our donors and to make this operation transparent with full disclosures. The Foundation staff continues to work hard with improvements to the operation including the new Foundation website, added features in the Kings Pointer magazine such as listing gifts made to the Academy, and the soon to be added Online KP Store. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about this organization.

You may be getting a call from a midshipman during our phonathon, or an appeal from a classmate to help with your class gift, or a letter or email from this office asking for your support. Please be as generous as you can. Taking care of those who come after you is the true spirit of giving. Thank you. ACTA NON VERBA!

Jim Tobin ‘77
Chief Operating Officer
USMMA Alumni Foundation