Sustainability and the Liberal Arts Campus
June 20-22, 2008
at
Southern Oregon University
Welcome to Southern Oregon University! I am delighted that SOU is hosting the 2008 annual meeting of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges. Our focus this year will be on sustainability and the liberal arts campus.
We're very proud of our efforts here at SOU to support sustainability and the environment. This conference is a great opportunity to share ideas and best practices with colleagues from across the country. The conference theme fits perfectly with the values of Southern Oregon University and also mirrors the values of our Southern Oregon region. From viticulture and agriculture, to small and major businesses, the Rogue Valley is a model for sustainability and environmental consciousness to much of the nation.
During your visit to SOU, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the nation's most celebrated theatre companies, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. We have reserved tickets for a production of Othello in the renowned outdoor Elizabethan theatre on Saturday, June 21. I do hope you will make time in your schedule for this event.
If you wish to enjoy Southern Oregon before or after the COPLAC conference, Ashland is just minutes away from the Rogue River corridor -- known for its rafting, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Within a short drive, you can also visit several state and national parks, including the famous Crater Lake National Park.
Remaining closer to the campus, you might consider visiting one of our fine local wineries. If you crave fine food, our community is home to award-winning artisan cheese makers, chocolatiers, gourmet food boutiques, and fine dining restaurants. And our main streets, in Ashland, Medford, and Jacksonville, all provide historical experiences as well as wonderful shopping opportunities.
I am sure you will find the 2008 COPLAC Annual Meeting to be insightful and inspiring. And I know you will thoroughly enjoy your visit to our campus, community, and region. I look forward to seeing you here!
Best wishes,
Mary Cullinan
President
