 There are certain types of expression that simply can't exist in a static state. It's the difference between an inclination and a dream, the difference between polite applause and a standing ovation. At the University of Alabama, it is a dream that all students in the performing arts have the opportunity to reach their full potential in an environment without limitations. Soon the curtain will rise on the next act of performing arts at a program already known for graduating talented professionals ready to take their place on the national and international stage. The University is writing a new script and reimagining the role of Bryce Maine. A 21st century Renaissance will re-energize this historic facility and connect it to a world-class performance venue. The powerful combination of exceptionally talented students and faculty in the historic and pastoral setting of the Bryce property ensures that the Performing Arts Academic Center will be a marquee public space for the campus community as well as visitors. It's truly a unique situation that we get to be on stage, we get to take class and we get to teach classes, which means that it becomes a true laboratory for development. It is the East and Juliet is the sun. I would not have received the scholarship funds that I received through the Miss America Organization, through the Miss Alabama Pageant and through other opportunities had it not been for this program and had it not been for the quality of the faculty and staff in this program. The diversity in which graduates go on to achieve success speaks to the totality of what they prepare us to do and the discipline that they provide. As an instructor one of the limitations of the current facility is just the number of performance classrooms that we have. So what that means is that we have to limit our rehearsal periods as well. So we don't have the opportunity to go into breakout sessions so we can never fully delve into character. We can't be rehearsing multiple shows concurrently because of our limited space. It's the missing link to a complete overhaul of artistic education and advancement not only at the university but also for the state. We are the flagship in so many ways and it's now time that our performing arts environment and facilities represent that. And as an alum and a current student that's a very, very powerful thing to say that we'll finally catch up with the quality of our dancers and faculty. Mary and I have always loved the performing arts. Here at the University of Alabama we're blessed to have some of the greatest faculty in their field training the most talented students as they pursue their dreams. Having the opportunity to witness these brilliant young performers chase after their dreams is the very reason why we wanted a front row seat in this campaign. When we heard about the plan for the Performing Arts Academic Center we were delighted the university was making this commitment and we wanted to make a contribution. When we fully understood the plan for the Adjoining University Welcome Center in Bryce, Maine we saw this as a transformational facility. When it's completed the Performing Arts Academic Center will have a tremendous impact for our students, faculty, as well as for our entire community. Elevating these performances at every level this facility will enhance the educational experience with space dedicated to hands-on learning. We hope you will join us in setting the stage for greatness by first taking the time to understand the magnitude of this project and then by making a contribution to the campaign for the Performing Arts. To make this facility a reality we will need the financial support of our Alabama friends and those who love the Performing Arts and the University of Alabama as much as we do. Our students and faculty already boast a truly remarkable list of accomplishments and awards. With the support of our alumni and friends now it's time we give them a stage worthy of their ambition. The stage is set for greatness with a script in hand to allow UA students to excel, to inspire the patrons of Performing Arts and to expand the cultural offerings in the region. With your generous gift the curtain will rise on the performance of a lifetime.