Georgia Institute of Technology - Blueprint Yearbook (Atlanta, GA)

Page 16 text:

Tech Strives to Maintain High Overall Stature Georgia Tech has always been con- sidered a leading learning institution. However, with changes in technology, culture, and humanity, Tech is constantly faced with the challenge of maintaining its reputation. In fact, in order to be a com- plete, superior university, Georgia Tech must continue adaptation and innovation in a number of areas. Facilities, pro- grams, academics, research, and the 12 l Leading Edge campus itself have all been important in keeping the leading edge. The fight to stay on top has not been easy, nor has it gone unchecked. Inces- sant budget cuts by the government have severely hurt attempts to improve overall education and other vital program areas. A previously outdated and inadequate campus hindered the attraction of speakers, faculty, and athletes to Tech and prevented the creation of a total university. These problems and others have been costly to surmount, but dona- tions, effective completion of projects, and careful planning for the future have enabled Tech to continue a tradition of excellence and keep the leading edge. .6 Campus improvement and beautifica tion was a major focus of the administra tion. The completion of the IMHSYI Complex and Peters Parking Deck wa important to meeting this goal. Futuri renovations, additions promise a plea sant, new look for the campus. Programs and special events were i very important part of a successful yeai their effectiveness was seen in standing room-only crowds and substantial medi: coverage. The highlight of the spring we: the acquisition of former President Jimmj Carter; in a lecture in the D. M. Smiti Building, Carter talked on many topics in cluding his role in politics in boti Washington and Georgia. Then, in an in

Page 15 text:

Student Life I 11

Page 17 text:

formal question and answer session, he read and responded to written questions from the audience of students and faculty. November brought three important lec- tures to the campus. As part of the Na- tional Lecture Series, Dr. Hans Mark, NASA's Deputy Administrator, address- ed UThe Next Twenty Years in Space. The Intersect Committee provided alum- ni. faculty, and students with an outstan- ding program at Homecoming featuring Dr. Edith Martin. Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Develop- ment, and Dr. William Devries, chief of the team that installed the first permanent ar- tificial heart. Celebrities from the entertainment world were also welcomed to the cam- pus. In a special reunion concert, Simon thritled an enthusiastic and Garfunkel crowd of Atlantans at Grant Field. Homecoming festivities included a con- cert by Firefall inthe Student Center Ballroom. Also, Tech baseball fans were entertained, harrassed, and amused by the San Diego Chicken. The productive year was only a beginn- ing for the continued efforts to maintain Tech's great reputation, as we strive to stay on top. TOP, LEFT TO RIGHT: The Tech tower stands as a symbol of traditional excellence. Bill Curry looks determined to reach a goal of competitiveness. BOTTOM, LEFT TO RIGHT: Former President Jim- my Carter gives a response in a question and answer session in the D. M. Smith auditorium. Simon and Garfunkel in a reunion concert at Grant Field, The San Diego Chicken finds a new friend at Rose Bowl field. Leading Edge l 13