Message from the Dean

The celebration of our 75th anniversary adds luster to an exciting time at the School of Continuing Studies. In my six years as dean, we have worked to make SCS a model of continuing and professional education. Judging by a wide range of measures - awards for programming, the support of partners within the University and in the private sector, and, most important, the response of our students - it's clear we are making that goal a reality.

The quality of our academic programs, in keeping with Northwestern's high standards, has never been better and has never extended into so many different fields: from our pioneering program in medical informatics to offerings in areas such as forensics, futures and option trading, sports administration, and much more. Further, we will continue to expand our roster of creative programs for adult learners as the needs of our students and society evolve.

SCS is also extending the way we deliver our academic programs. Distance learning, online degree programs, and virtual learning communities are increasingly important aspects of the educational experience - perhaps more so for adult learners than any other group. SCS is leading the way in adapting these new methods to the high-quality programming expected of Northwestern and SCS, as a result we will be able to serve a much larger and more diverse group of students.

In all of these efforts SCS is redefining what adult education can and should be. We know that education for adults has never been more important and by offering access to one of the nation's premier institutions of higher learning, we occupy a special place in the universe of adult education. That's something that has been true since the school was founded in 1933, and I am proud to be a part of that legacy.

Thank you all for your generous support and commitment to SCS on our 75th anniversary. We are grateful that you are part of our celebration.

Sincerely,

Thomas F. Gibbons

Dean, School of Continuing Studies