UNLV President David B. Ashley emphasized action as "the antidote to uncertainty," in his annual State of the University address. In doing so, he communicated an unwavering commitment to acting on the university's recently completed strategic plan despite the financial downturn affecting the state and the potential for further reductions in the university's operating budget.

"Although there is some budgetary uncertainty, what remains certain is this: our priorities will not change," Ashley said to a crowd of students, faculty, staff and community members gathered at the UNLV Student Union for the address. "We are resolute in not allowing budget actions by others to redefine them."

"Education has reached a critical turning point in Nevada," Ashley said referencing the uncertain economic climate and calling on the public for support. "As citizens of this state, we must embrace the value of education...."

In the 20-minute address, Ashley described UNLV as "entrepreneurial, innovative and unconventional," and elaborated on the three areas of focus defined in the strategic plan, each equally important in advancing the university --infrastructure, research and student success. Ashley highlighted the creation of action teams in each focus area and the opening of the student-centric Academic Success Center, as proof of his commitment to action. He also spoke of his commitment to "measure action against outcome" in evaluating the university's efforts.

Additionally, Ashley strengthened his commitment to ecology by noting that he will soon enact the first official sustainability policy for UNLV, calling it an immediate and forward-looking plan for environmental stewardship. A sustainability coordinator, recent carbon footprint inventory, purchasing guidelines, a commitment to incorporating sustainability requirements into formal contracts, and a campus multi-modal transportation plan will be components of the policy. Further, Ashley seeks to position UNLV as a community resource on sustainability.

"This must be a year of action," Ashley stated in closing. "Remember the commitments we have made to our students, to research, to our community, to one another. We share these commitments; we share a plan; we share a vision. In this way, we will use the powerful winds in this storm of uncertainty to reach greater heights. As with [a] kite...the strong force that moves against us will also carry us upward.

The State of the University address was delivered during the Academic Convocation, an event that marks the start of each academic year and provides an opportunity to officially welcome students and faculty to the university. To read the full text of the address, please visit <a href="http://president.unlv.edu">Office of the President</a>.