All great conversations begin with listening, and during my first year as President, my priority has been to listen. My goal is to integrate our conversations, knowledge and dreams into a vision for the future of Union-PSCE. The result of these talks was "A Catalyst for Conversation," a document detailing what I heard, as well as thoughts and questions that evolved from these discussions.* Concurrently, the Board of Trustees has initiated a formal strategic planning process. They have appointed a Strategic Planning Committee (with Board, faculty, student and staff representation) that has been working with a strategic planning consultant since late Fall 2007. Together, we are focusing on an exploration of the key strengths of the Seminary, its distinctive qualities, and a broad range of possibilities for our future. This process is expected to continue throughout 2008 with adoption of the Strategic Plan by our Board of Trustees in early 2009. Over the next twelve months, we hope to determine the most effective ways to position and represent the Seminary in its branding -- everything from our name and logo to the look and design of our marketing materials. A critical component of this strategic and marketing initiative is you. We want and encourage you to participate in this process. That is why we've created this site to keep you informed. Over the course of the next few months, we will conduct a series of town hall meetings and we look forward to hearing your insights, opinions and recommendations. If you are unable to participate in a town hall meeting, that's okay. We've created an online survey so your voice is sure to be heard. Let's continue the conversation. Sincerely, Brian K. Blount President * To receive your copy of "A Catalyst for Conversation" please contact Janet Shook at (804) 278-4211.