Readers of this column may recall that I have been on record in recent months about the many good things happening in CLAS this year.  In addition to accomplishments triggered by CLAS, we have also enjoyed the gracious  benevolence of Tally, Tigert, and our alumni/friends.  No question, it has been a fine year.  
     But in order to maintain good standing in the International Deans Union, I must cite here our catchy slogan, "What have you done for me lately (as in, this week)?"  In spite of its substantial gains, CLAS has yet many quite real needs.  
     And it is December, after all, when gifts are expected, so I ask Chancellor Herbert, President Lombardi, Provost Capaldi, and CLAS alumni fundraising czar, Al O'Neill,  to keep in mind some of the modest presents listed below that would look good under the CLAS holiday tree.  

Funding for the Women's Gym--A great opportunity to house one of the finest Women's Studies programs in the country and to name the building.  I have only a few of these naming opportunities left, so don't wait too long.  Note also that not only does this fund a great program, but another UF historic building becomes renovated.  A real win-win.  

Enhanced Faculty/Staff Salary Package--Progress has been made, but the UF salary structure is still much below where it should be for an AAU institution.  

Term Professorships--Our alumni and friends have already funded several of these, and we have need for more (the target is 20) to recognize and reward the best faculty in CLAS.  

Ethics Professorship--The need exists for an interdepartmental effort to integrate ethical considerations more broadly in our curriculum.  We seek an endowed senior position, the occupant of which will provide leadership in this area.  

Continued Upgrade of Rolfs Hall--We are gradually modernizing this 1927 building for critical CLAS teaching needs, although painfully slowly.   Much work remains to be done.  The provost is providing 5th floor renovations this year, for which I am grateful.  [Betty, did I mention the critical needs on the 4th floor, too?]  

Residential College--An unfulfilled dream is the conversion of a campus dormitory into a site for faculty-student social and intellectual interaction.  A small Residential College within UF could have a catalytic effect far beyond its size, and our students (and faculty) would be the better for it.  

More Infrastructure--We always need more talented staff to make this far-flung College function properly.  New positions for secretaries, engineers, computer managers, and lab technicians would be appreciated.  

Increased TA Stipends--To be successful in the graduate growth initiative, we need to be competitive with our peer institutions in attracting the best graduate students.  Given the financial straits of most graduate students, stipend level takes on undue significance.  

Additional Graduate Fellowships--Similar purpose and needs as described above under TA Stipends.  

Naming of the College--A defining mark for CLAS would take the form of a large gift to endow  and name the College (i.e., the Gates College of Liberal Arts and Sciences).  

     I will stop here to avoid the slightest appearance of unreasonableness, but a more complete list is available upon request.  And remember, CLAS is always a good investment.  
     A joyous holiday season to all.