Greetings Hamptonians!

As we embark upon the second year of my administration, I invite all Hampton alumni to continue to embrace "Possibilities Unlimited." Given the economic climate today, it is essential that we remain positive, and focused on solutions. Our alma mater needs its alumni support more so now than ever. It is apparent that our communities are disproportionately affected by the economic downturn. While the unemployment rate may be above 9% over all, this number translates into a 30% unemployment rate within the African American communities. As such, many of our students have been unable to return to Hampton because of lack of funds. Similarly, many students who aspired to attend Hampton have been unable to do so. It is incumbent upon us as alumni to take action- to provide a "hand up." We cannot sit idly by waiting for someone else to provide a "hand out."

The NHAA, Inc. is launching a "Hampton Makes Cents" campaign. The goal of this campaign is to generate $2 million for student scholarships. Think about how you have personally benefited from Hampton and subsequently contribute to this campaign. There are many scholarship funds that you can select from to designate your contribution or you may choose to establish an individual endowed scholarship. Additional information about this campaign will be forth coming and posted on our web site.

While we were students at Hampton we learned the value of serving others. NHAA, Inc. wants to demonstrate our alumni's continued commitment to service through a Global Day of Service initiative. On the King Holiday, all NHAA, Inc. Chapters will be engaging alumni within their communities to join them in participating in a day of service. We will demonstrate to the world that Hampton alumni care.

Our 2009-2010 Work Plan builds upon our successes and lessons learned. We need all of our alumni to get on board and join the NHAA, Inc. as we work to preserve the Hampton legacy!

Yours in the Hampton Spirit,

Patricia Larkins Hicks, Ph.D. '71
NHAA, Inc. President