August 26, 2002

Greetings fellow bioengineering alumni and special friends,

August 12, 2002 marked a very important date in the history of the Department of Bioengineering at the Jacobs School as over 400 guests (many of which were alumni) witnessed the Dedication of the Powell-Focht Bioengineering Hall. I write you today to challenge you to join me in a collaborative effort to give back to the department that launched our careers and futures in very special ways.

Let me take a minute to share my vision: Located on the first floor of the newly built Powell-Focht Bioengineering Hall is a student lounge. I believe this facility will have a special significance if it is financed entirely by bioengineering alumni and special friends. Therefore, I have agreed to kick-off a challenge campaign to raise the necessary $250,000 to fund this endeavor. I will provide $1 in matching funds for every $2 gift towards endowment that comes from any other individual contribution (minimum gift to qualify for match is $100). I also encourage all to seek corporate matching gifts to maximize our giving.

I ask you to join me in creating a place where bioengineering students can regularly gather for social, academic and business discussions; where outside visitors can meet with students and directly experience the focus of the bioengineering department on improving health care for the community at large. I believe that the lounge will help catalyze a real sense of community within the department as a whole. It will be "our" place for reconnecting with an institution that is rapidly becoming a premier department of bioengineering in the country.

All individuals that respond to this challenge will be personally recognized on a plaque to be displayed in a prominent location in the Student Lounge. Contributions of $1000 or more will also be acknowledged on the main donor wall which serves as the centerpiece of the Powell-Focht building.

For those of you that were unable to attend the Dedication Ceremony on August 12, please visit the specially designed website that includes the Dedication Ceremony, Dedication Lecture and my personal challenge at the Alumni Reception http://www-bioeng.ucsd.edu/powell_focht

For your convenience, you can contribute on line (secured server) on the form below. Please also feel free to contact Kelly Briggs, Associate Director, Development at the Jacobs School with any questions you might have. She can be reached at (858)534-2329 or kbriggs@ucsd.edu.

I invite you to join me in establishing a legacy that will enhance the education experience for generations of students to come.

Sincerely,

Erik T. Engelson '82 '84
Enclosure
GIFT DONATION FORM