A Mount Story I’d like to tell you a story about the Mount. I warn you now that, ultimately, I am going to ask you for money, but bear with me because, first, I am going to explore the rewards of commitment. I graduated from the Mount in 1970 after spending two years as a student. After graduation, I frequently contributed something like $25 a year, but otherwise had no involvement. In 1996, a neighbor and fellow Mountie, John Walsh, approached, put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Would you like to become involved at the Mount?” For years I have joked that it was one of the most expensive hands I have ever encountered! But recently I realized it meant a whole lot more. John’s invitation proved to be a new and exciting faith experience for me. My involvement with the Mount has exposed me to wonderful opportunities to see our Catholic faith as a truly vital, dynamic way of life. It has been a real discovery process for me. I cannot reach out my hand and physically extend a similar offer to get involved to each of you. What I can do is tell you this story and extend to you this verbal offer to GET INVOLVED. Reacquaint yourself with the Mount. Experience the faith, discovery, leadership and community it offers. If my story is any indication, you will benefit from a rich experience. Today, I realize that John’s invitation was really more than an appeal for money. I know I am a better person for having said yes. I wish the same for you. Finally, I come to my role as the chair of the Mount Annual Fund because the Mount, like any institution of higher education, cannot survive on its tuition, which covers only about a third of its operating costs. If the Mount is to continue beyond its first 200 years, which it will celebrate in 2008, if it is going to continue graduating future Mounties and leaders of our society, then I must ask your financial help. Give what you can. Every dollar helps. You will ultimately realize that my real request is to GET INVOLVED and reacquaint yourself with the power of the Mount experience. Sincerely,
Brian Smith, C’70
Chair, Mount Annual Fund | 
