As I reflect on my first year as president, I am filled with pride in this remarkable Chapman Family. The conversations, connections, and moments of discovery I have experienced across our campuses have only deepened my conviction that Chapman is a truly special place.
This issue of Chapman Magazine captures much of what makes me so optimistic about where we are headed. You will read about a milestone that affirmed our amazing trajectory: Chapman’s endowment has crossed the $1 billion threshold for the first time in our history — an extraordinary jump from $300 million just a decade ago. This achievement reflects the ambitions of this great university and the generosity and impact of so many friends and supporters who believe in what we are building here. Indeed, it will ensure that Chapman has the resources to thrive for generations to come.
You will also learn about extraordinary performances at the Musco Center for the Arts, as we celebrate a decade of world-class programming that has elevated Chapman’s cultural presence in our region and beyond — thanks to the creativity and generosity of Marybelle and Paul Musco. And you will hear about the vision and priorities I shared in my first State of the University address, where we announced several historic fundraising milestones and the notable 10-year anniversaries of both the Musco Center and the Hilbert Museum of California Art. At this address, we also highlighted some of our impressive faculty, students, and alumni who are advancing research, building careers, and making us proud every day.
We have so much to celebrate — and even more to build together. I hope these stories inspire you and remind you, as they do me, of just how bright Chapman’s future is.
Thank you for your continued dedication to this special university. I look forward to seeing many of you on campus this fall.
Best,
Matt
